Chapter 25 Stay in Your Lane

When he stepped toward me, a wave of unease rippled through my chest. Being brought home by Luke Jordan two days in a row… that was something I couldn't possibly explain away. Dominic Hawthorne's hand clamped down on my shoulder, pulling me firmly into his space—as if staking his claim. Luke's eyes flicked between us. His expression softened, and he gave me a polite smile. "You're welcome. I'll be on my way." The moment the door shut behind him, Dominic's grip turned cruel. He dragged me down to the basement, his movements harsh and unrelenting. "What are you doing?!" I cried, struggling against him. His only response was a cold sneer. The rest was force and fury—leaving me terrified, humiliated, and helpless. When it was over, he fixed his clothes as though nothing had happened. His voice was low, edged with warning. "Lydia Fairchild, now that you're a Hawthorne, you belong to me—and me alone. I advise you to behave yourself." He left me on the cold basement floor. For a long time, I