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“Need I remind you that I do own you? Unless you want certain information getting out?” Oliver doesn’t let loose.

I press my lips together, refusing to give him the satisfaction of seeing my fear.

“That’s what I thought. Now take that stupid ring off, and let’s get out of here.”

My fingers graze the Alexandrite band.

“Take it off, Gemma. Now,” Oliver says.

My heart pounds in my ears. The ring is beautiful. It’s perfect. Just like the man who gave it to me. I’ve only known him for a short time, but he somehow understands me better than anyone. He sees my true self, the person I used to be before Oliver crushed my spirit.

Elijah looks at me like I’m the most captivating woman in the world. He speaks to me with tenderness and respect. And when we’re together, he makes me feel safe and cherished.

With him, I remember what it’s like to be happy and laugh freely, to be myself without fear of judgment. He embraces every part of me.

And now, seeing the concern and care in his eyes, I know he would do anything to protect me. He’s been fighting for me all this time, never giving up hope that we could be together, but instead of trusting in him, in us, I gave up.

“Take it off or else.” Oliver’s fingers dig deeper into my arm.

No more running. Enough is enough.

“I won’t take it off.”

“What did you say?” Oliver’s eyes flash with rage.

“I said no.” My voice comes out shaky but firm. Behind me, I can sense Elijah tensing, ready to intervene. But this is my battle.

In one swift motion, I wrench my arm free from Oliver’s grasp. He stumbles back slightly, surprise flickering across his face.

Rubbing my sore arm, I square my shoulders and lift my chin. “I won’t be your little toy to manipulate anymore. We’re done.”

“You’ll regret this. Without me, you’re screwed. Your brother and your family, too. All because of you.”

I flinch at his cruel words but refuse to back down. “Do it.”

Oliver’s lip curls in a sneer. “We’ll see how long that lasts. You’ll come crawling back. I give you one day to change your mind.”

“I don’t need a day. It’s over.”

Oliver comes closer, looming over me. “It’s not over until I say it is.”

I lose my balance and trip, my high heels getting caught on my dress, but before I fall to the ground, strong arms wrap around me, keeping me steady.

Elijah.

His solid warmth at my back gives me strength, and I straighten up, looking Oliver right in the eyes. “Yes, it is over.”

He moves to grab my wrist, but Elijah is faster, catching Oliver’s arm in a vice-like grip.

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you,” Elijah says, a dangerous edge underlying his tone.

Oliver wrenches his arm away, glancing between us. “She’s still my wife. You have no claim over her.”

“Not for long,” I say. “The divorce papers will be signed, one way or another.”

“You’ll regret this.” Oliver scowls, then turns on his heel and stalks away without another word.

I press a hand to my chest, feeling my heart thudding against my palm. The initial panic that sent my pulse racing begins to subside, though my limbs still tremble with excess energy. I close my eyes and focus on each inhale and exhale, willing my body to calm. As the adrenaline drains from my veins, my shoulders relax, and my breathing evens out.

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