Page 109 of near

“And if I refuse?”

His eyes harden to flint. “Then I’ll destroy your brother’s company. And trust me, I’m capable of it.”

I don’t doubt that. In the end, I was the one asking Bash and my father to give Oliver a job. So, maybe he really has the means and the ruthlessness to do so without a second thought. But I’ll be damned if I let him control me again.

“Go to hell, Oliver.”

His hand wraps around my throat, slamming me back against the wall. “You always did need to learn your place. Perhaps I was too lenient before. But not anymore.”

I gasp for air as Oliver’s grip tightens around my throat.

“You’re still the same weak, pathetic girl I married.” His cold eyes bore into me, relishing my panic. “We both know you’ll give in. You always do.”

I shake my head, trying to deny his words, but the lack of oxygen makes my struggles feeble.

“Because deep down, you know you’re nothing without me.” Oliver loosens his hold just enough for me to wheeze in a breath. “A pretty little accessory and a toy in bed. That’s all you are good for.”

The edges of my vision start to blur.

“Who else could ever want you?” His lips brush my ear as he speaks. “You’re damaged goods.”

Tears prick my eyes.

“In the end, it’s your fault.”

My knees buckle, but Oliver’s grip keeps me upright. “There’s my good girl. Just accept your place.”

The moment Oliver lets go of me, I collapse forward, coughing violently.

He kneels down to me, his fingers grazing along my cheek. “So, what’s it gonna be?”

I’m trapped. How did I not see this coming? Amanda warned me about Oliver messing with the paperwork, causing unnecessary delays. And now Elijah and Bash are caught in the crossfire of my foolish mistakes.

I take a shaky breath. “Fine. I’ll go to your stupid events if it means you’ll sign the papers after.”

He’s all charm again. “See, that wasn’t so hard. I knew you’d come around. But if you try any funny business, the deal’s off. I want you on your best behavior, hanging on my arm like a proper wife.”

My skin crawls at the thought. “Don’t worry, I’ll play the part.”

“Good girl.”

It sounds wrong coming from him, and the condescending pat on my head makes me fantasize about driving a needle through his designer loafer.

“Oh, and one more thing. No contact with your boy toy until after this is done. I don’t want him getting any ideas about sweeping in to rescue you.”

My heart drops. No Elijah? I open my mouth to protest, but Oliver silences me with a look.

“This is non-negotiable. Besides, a little time apart will remind you what you’ve been missing.” His eyes rake over me.

I cross my arms, feeling exposed. “I hate you.”

“Feisty as ever. I’ve missed that fire in you. Maybe after our arrangement, we can rekindle that... passion.”

His fingertips graze my collarbone, and I slap his hand away in disgust.

How did I ever fall in love with you?

“The only thing happening after this is you signing the divorce papers. Then you’ll be out of my life for good.”

---