Page 59 of Thorns of Malice

What is she talking about?

Dax scowls at her.

I'd love to know what she means by her accusation, but I decide not to ask her right now. Avery catches me off guard, sliding her hand on my spine, and I shudder, hating myself.

It's true. I'm an addict. I have needs. One touch from anyone can ignite the demons within me, even if it's from my enemy. My disgust can turn into lust with nothing but one suggestive touch.

Stop being weak.

Dax could satisfy me on his own. I have no doubt, now that we're back in the same room together, but that won't pay him back. It's clear that letting him be the only one who gets me won't hurt him.

He needs to pay,I remind myself.

Avery traces the top of my thong, breathlessly praising, "You've always looked good in whore red."

My core burns with the urges I can't control.

Don't get played.

Stay focused.

I turn and smile at Avery, running my hand over her tit the same way she did it to me.

She inhales sharply, holding her breath, her intoxicated gaze filling with the same look I saw when I was her pawn.

For the first time ever, I realize it's hope.

She recovers, reaches toward me, and grazes her fingers along my cleavage, creating a burst of tingles. She coos, "You've waited a long time for me, haven't you, Ivy? You came back here in whore red to tease us all, didn't you?"

"Fuck off, Avery!" Dax booms.

My butterflies kick off. I state, "Dax is the one who decided this was my color. Didn't you, babe?" I glance back at him.

He studies me, assessing the situation, confusion all over his expression.

I almost laugh. I've not seen Dax like this before. He's always been the one in control, calling the shots. Not this time.

And it feels good.

Bobby strolls over to the bar and pours drinks. He comes over and hands Dax and me a glass, ordering. "Drink up."

"Don't drink that, Ivy," Dax states.

My chest tightens. I force a playful laugh. "Why? Do you think Bobby laced it again?"

Bobby freezes and the color drains from his face.

"Aww." I step forward, put my fingers on his chest, and drag them downward. I turn on my innocent Avery stare, asking, "You didn't think I didn't know, did you?"

"I don't know what you're talking about," he denies.

"It's okay, Bobby. I'm glad you drugged me."

"I don't know what you're insinuating, but I assure you you're misinformed," he insists.

Dax snarls, "You know exactly what she's insinuating, and she isn't misinformed. We all know it, so stop lying."

I take a sip of the drink.

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