Page 114 of Thorns of Malice

I can't deny it. I do need it. I'm jonesing for a hit, even if it's not the high Dax gives me.

He puts his hand over my cheek. "Come on, Ivy, let's go to my hotel."

"She's not going anywhere with you," Dax barks.

My stomach dives. I glance up.

He curls his fists at his sides, his eyes dark with anger, looming over us. He threatens, "I said to get your hands off her."

Jaxon scoots his chair back and rises, snarling, "It's you."

Dax scowls.

Jaxon says, "Don't worry, Ivy. I have this handled."

"Have it handled? You have what handled?" Dax questions.

Jaxon refocuses on him. "You. All you've done is destroy her life. You're never coming near her again."

Dax chuckles. "Is that what you think?"

"It's what I know. Come on, Ivy, let's go," Jaxon says, reaching down for me.

I shrug away from him. "No."

Jaxon's eyes widen. "What do you mean no? Come on, we're going."

"Don't go, Ivy," Dax orders.

I glance between the two of them, unsure what to do. I don't want to hurt Jaxon, but I don't want to leave Dax. As much as I hate myself for it, I have unfinished business with him. I'm not ready to part ways.

I haven't gotten my revenge.

It has nothing to do with revenge.

I love him.

No, I can't go there again.

"Ivy, now," Jaxon orders.

Dax reaches for his throat and lifts him up until he is on his tiptoes. "Don't ever talk to her like that again."

"Dax," I scream.

He doesn't take his eyes off Jaxon. Jaxon's cheeks turn red. He sputters.

"Dax, stop it," I order.

Dax glances at me. "He's not what you want, Ivy."

Guilt fills me, and I know Dax sees it on my face.

He turns back to Jaxon. "You have two seconds to get the fuck out of here." He releases him.

Jaxon grabs his throat, gasping.

"Jaxon, are you okay?" I ask, putting my hand on his back.

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