Page 82 of Sardonic Burn

I focus the rest of my energy on drinking more.

The last time I got loose was likely last year during Lucas’ birthday party. I had free time in between duties at home and my missions, so I was able to fully relax. It ended up with me nearly drowning in his pool, drunk and with no underwear.

I still have no idea what happened to that pair of lace panties.

My mind goes blank as someone gives me another shot of tequila. Despite knowing how terrible it is to mix drinks, I can’t find it in me to care. For the first time in a while, Dylan and Hudson aren’t on my mind.

I’m dancing with a cute guy, his hands on my hips. The music is fast, and he tries to push our bodies together, to bring us closer.

However, an arm wraps around my throat and pulls me back. I collide with a harsh surface and nearly fall down. He’s not squeezing me enough to hurt me, but I can feel his burning flesh on mine.

Slowly, I turn my head and freeze.

Hudson is shooting daggers at the guy who was dancing with me, jaw clenched.

I can’t think straight.

My mind is filled with him yet again. He manages to rattle my cage time after time and is showing no indication of stopping. My heart is thumping against my ribcage, loud enough for the world to hear.

“Hudson?”

I’m surprised he can hear me over the loud music. Slowly, his eyes drop down to mine, still holding me close to his body. A wave of rage flashes behind those forest greens before he quickly wipes it away.

Or perhaps I wanted to see anger, but it was never there in the first place.

He leans down and whispers in my ear, “What are you doing, Noelle?”

My core throbs, and I’m reminded of the restroom incident. I did my best to shove it to the back of my head, not to think about the freedom and pleasure my enemy made me feel, but now? I can’t deny the sensational ache between my legs.

I swallow a knot in my throat, trying to sustain the animal within.

“Having fun.”

He tilts his head to the side with a raised brow.

“You reek of alcohol. How much have you had to drink?”

I frown.

“Too much.” Honesty is the best policy, right? Well, it seems that it’s wrong of me to be honest because Hudson clutches me closer to his body, and now there’s not even half of an inch of space between us.

“Why are you here?” I ask before allowing myself to get too absorbed in our proximity. I’m trying to ignore it, but my dedication starts dissolving the longer his arm is wrapped around me.

“I followed you here,” he murmurs against my ear, and I bite my tongue to prevent the pathetic side of me from showing.

“You did? Why?”

“Because clearly, you’re not fit to be on your own. Now, either be a good girl and follow me to my car, or watch as I burn this place to the ground and then force you to the car.”

“Why in the world would I come with you?”

A low, dangerously alluring chuckle slips his lips.

“Oh, it’s adorable how you think this is a choice. You’re coming with me, Noelle. Don’t make me tell you again.”

“Or what?”

His eyes close briefly, and he’s desperately trying to remain as calm as possible. His other hand is on my waist, gripping it tight enough for his fingers leave a mark.

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