Page 38 of Cruel Riches

“Not even close.” Nate’s hand trailed over my right arm, sending tingles over my bare skin.

“What are you talking about? You said that video was the only copy.”

“It was. But I’ve been following you, Alexis,” he said softly. “My house wasn’t the only one you broke into, was it?”

I swallowed hard and didn’t respond.

“I’ve directly witnessed you sneaking into two other houses in this town over the last month. I’m guessing there were probably others too, before mine.” He paused for a beat and cocked his head to one side. “I’ve noticed you never take anything. You just look around. What’s that about? Is it envy?”

“Why the hell would I be envious of anyone from this town?” I spat.

Nate smiled thinly. “Well, I know your family has some money. But nothing compared to the people here. It must be hard for you to see all these huge estates and mansions and know you’ll never belong in one. It must be hard for you to imagine all the things you missed out on, too.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

His smile widened. “I’m talking about how difficult it must’ve been growing up with so little compared to what you could’ve had if your grandparents hadn’t disowned your side of the family. They’re quite wealthy, aren’t they?” he said. “But I guess they had to reject you because of what your dad did. Am I right about that?”

I felt as if his belt was around my neck again, squeezing painfully. My breath stopped, and the gazebo seemed to spin around me.

“You know who I am,” I whispered.

He nodded. “I do, Alexis. Or should I say… Alexandra?”

Sickness rose in my throat. “How did you find out?”

“I recognized you after we met,” he said.

“But you didn’t say anything.”

“It didn’t happen right away,” he said, brows furrowing. “I knew you were familiar, but I couldn’t figure out why. It finally hit me as I walked into the restaurant that night, when I arranged to give your phone back.”

“How did you recognize me?” I asked, hands trembling. “How could you possibly know?”

“For some reason, my dad took me to your dad’s arraignment when it happened,” he said, cold gaze raking over me. “I sat right near you in the courtroom, and after that, I always remembered your eyes. That exact shade of blue with the rings of gold around the pupils. You’ve grown up and dyed your hair, but I know it’s you. Alexandra Covington.”

Hot tears slipped down my cheeks. “You can’t tell anyone,” I whispered.

“I haven’t,” he said. “Yet.”

“Please, Nate. Don’t.”

His lips curved into a cruel smile. “You understand me now,” he said, running his thumb over my cheek to capture my tears. “Right?”

“No.” I shook my head. “What do you mean?”

“I own you now, Alexis.” His nasty smile grew wider. “And that means I’ll decide when we’re even.”

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