Page 77 of Filthy Royal

“I said no.” Because something was fraying at her control and the thought of this monster’s hands on her was even more unbearable than usual.

Unused to her defiance, the guard raised his fist. “Behave or else.”

“Nars, send her into that lift now!” The metallic command echoed through the corridor.

Becausehewas always listening. Always watching.

Nars froze.

“I don’t like to be kept waiting, pet.” The smug voice from her waking nightmares blared through the intercom once more. “Are you wishing for punishment?”

“No.” She forced all defiance from her tone. “I’ll behave.”

“Good.” The voice from above was heavy with satisfaction, as if he’d never had a doubt.

But why should he? He’d controlled everything for the past four planetary rotations. Won every struggle between them before she’d even had the chance to score a single hit.

But maybe that was about to change…

Maybe, after four planetary rotations, this would finally be her moment. Maybe Brock’s disappearance wasexactlythe boon she’d been waiting for.

Her heartbeat accelerated, and it took everything she had to keep her hands from shaking, her expression serene.

“That’s right, bitch. Behave or else.” Voice pitched low, Nars poked her with his finger, asserting what little power he had. “Your blood may give you exclusive access to the boss’s private room, but I doubt you’ll be feeling so smug once you’re up there.”

The guard’s words cut deep.

Not because of his threats. She’d experienced his cruelty so many times it barely registered now. No, this time, his words left a mark because Nars might be stupid, but for once, he might also be right.

For the first time in four planetary rotations, she was about to be with her employer when her brother was down below by the cages, training the fighters, andnotin the room with her.

And if that were truly the case, then just as Nars predicted, she wouldn’t be feeling so smug when she was in her employer’s private suite.

She wouldn’t feel anything at all.

Because if everything went according to plan, she’d be dead.

And so would her tormentor.

The nightmare would end. After all her scheming and plotting, those she loved would finally be safe.

Scarlett steeled herself and took a step toward the elevator.

“I knew it.” Lurching from behind a sculpture, Prince Jai shoved his smug, entitled face into hers, his crown listing to one side as he clamped his purple-skinned hand down on her arm and spun her around. “Stormhartispassing you around, and now that I’m here, I’ll take my turn.”

“Let go.” She tugged at his hold. “I’m otherwise engaged.”

“Alpha Lord, you need to return to the party.” Nars used his most polite tone. The guard might not be the brightest, but even he knew a prince when he saw one.

“No.” The prince’s grip tightened. “I’m owed, and I intend to collect.”

Nars yanked his taser from his belt, his short fuse sparking. “I don’t think you know who you’re messing with.”

Darkness enveloped the corridor as the lights—and overhead cameras—flickered and went out.

“What in the hells?” Nars shifted his weapon, pointing it at her. “I told you to behave.”

“I am.” Panic surged through her. He thought she’d used her gift to cause the power failure, but she hadn’t.

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