Page 150 of Carnal

I don't move until I hear the water turn off. Then I sit against the wall, putting my head between my knees.

"Get up," he orders.

I glance up and look back down. He's naked with a semi. I must have seen him undressed before, but it doesn't sit right with me. My emotions get the best of me, and I uncontrollably sob.

"Jesus." He sighs and slides down the wall until he's sitting next to me. He pulls me into his arms and shushes me.

It only confuses me further. How can a man who just threatened to burn my eye out attempt to comfort me?

He murmurs, "I know this is a lot for you."

I keep crying, unable to stop.

"Shh," he continues, then adds, "Don't worry about the ten pounds. I'll let the chef know, and it'll be easy for you."

I choke on a few breaths and wipe my tears. I study him, but he takes it the wrong way.

He tugs me closer. "Everything will be fine. I'll protect you."

"You just threatened to burn me," I blurt out.

He buries my face in his chest, claiming, "You've forgotten how things are around here. It's okay. I'll give you a pass. You'll soon relearn how to act."

How to act?

Is this guy for real?

No way I agreed to marry him.

Then why am I here with him?

I push out of his grasp. "I'm really tired. Can I go rest, please?"

He hesitates then nods. "Okay. Let me show you what side you sleep on."

"What side?" I question in horror.

His face hardens. He crosses his arms, asking, "Why do you look sickened by the idea of sleeping in our bed?"

My stomach churns. I put my hand over it and turn away from him.

He turns my chin back, snarling, "Pina? I asked you a question."

I debate how to reply but finally choose, "I don't remember anything."

"You will."

"But I don't right now."

Quiet fills the bathroom. My insides quiver harder, wondering if he'll hurt me again. I'm relieved when he lowers his voice and declares, "In time, you will."

I stay quiet.

He adds, "But you won't remember by staying out of my bed. You're mine, Pina. You belong to me and with me. Understand?"

A lump forms in my throat. Nothing could sound worse to me. I swallow hard and decide it's best to agree with him for now. "Yes, I understand," I reply, but the only thing clear is that I need to figure out how to get away from him.

If only I knew how.

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