Page 4 of Forbidden Love

Kally shakes her head.

“What? Why? How?” I realize that I’m rambling, but I’m confused. For the first time in my adult life, words aren’t making sense to me.

“That’s all I really know.”

I can’t believe I’m hearing this. Screw that. Of course I can believe this. It’s exactly like my parents to pull a stunt like this.

“Which brother?”

“Colton.”

Anger rips through my body at the thought of Colton being anywhere near my sweet girl. He’ll destroy her and enjoy it. He’s the oldest of my brothers at twenty-six, but he’s the most immature, self-centered, ignorant son of a bitch. He’s a spoiled rich kid who gets everything he wants from daddy.

“Why would they do this? What do they have over you?”

She shrugs. “I don’t know. I was told what was happening this morning. My father and your father told me. I don’t have a choice.”

“Over my dead body will this happen.”

I drag her behind me by the hand and knock into people as I rush through the crowds gathered to celebrate. I can’t even apologize because I’m so fucking angry right now. I’m like a raging bull, ready to go head-to-head with my target.

My father looks between Kally’s parents’ shoulders and smiles at me. I don’t care who sees me like a mad man right now; I’m beyond angry. I’m fucking livid.

“Sweetheart. Let’s take this somewhere more private.” My mother ushers me out of the room.

I don’t stop. I carry on dragging Kally with me. I must be hurting her with the grip I have on her hand, but I’m not letting her go.

I step into the study and see Colton pouring himself a drink. I could punch that smirk off his face.

“I take it Kally told you the good news.” My brother steps away from the decanter and smiles wickedly over the glass.

I let Kally go and launch myself onto my brother, punching his jaw with as much force as I can muster. I don’t know who pulls me off him, but I only focus when I see him spit the blood out of his mouth onto the wooden floor.

“You will never get your hands on her,” I snap. “Never. She’s too good for you.”

Spit is flying from my mouth, anger is coursing from me in waves, and my fists clench harder.

“Now, now, baby brother. I thought you would be happy for me… us.” He walks over to Kally and draws her into his side. I can see her trying to shy away from his touch. She looks physically sick, and I don’t blame her. Colton is the worst person I know. He hasn’t done one single good thing in his life.

“What do you have over Kally? Why her?” No one answers me, and I lose my temper. “Answer me, goddammit!” I yell.

“She’s payment.” My father speaks first.

I look at my dad with disgust. I can’t believe a father could be so cold and callous. He’s enjoying this.

“What payment?”

“I owe your father money.” Joe speaks quietly.

When I look at Kally’s dad, I feel a little remorse for him, because at least he looks genuinely sick about all of this, unlike my father and brother, who only look like they’re enjoying every moment. Bastards.

“How much?” I question.

“4.5 million,” Colton barks out, amused.

“Four…” My whole body tenses with rage. “Your daughter is only worth 4.5 million?”

“I didn’t make this contract, Clark. I know how you feel about my daughter.” Joe shakes his head. “It’s out of my hands. I’m sorry.”

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