Chapter 142

Nathaniel's face was like stone. "Julian's car has unrestricted access throughout Willowbrook. Roadblocks won't stop him—we won't reach them in time."

"What's our move, Mr. Falcon?"

Nathaniel yanked out his phone and dialed Julian's father, Reginald.

The Falcons and Ashfords had ties spanning generations. He knew the old man well.

The call connected instantly. "Nathaniel? To what do I owe this unexpected call?"

Nathaniel's grip on the phone turned white-knuckled, his voice razor-sharp. "Your son kidnapped someone under my protection. Think carefully—does he own any secluded estates outside the city?"

Meanwhile, in a private villa on the outskirts, Harrison slowly blinked awake.

Her vision cleared to reveal an opulent bedroom—gilded mirrors, silk drapes, furniture that screamed wealth.

Where was she?

She shot upright.

"Harrison, you're finally awake?" A male voice cut through the silence.

Harrison whipped her head toward the sound. Julian stood nearby, smirking. Her dark eyes narrowed to slits. "Julian? What the hell is this?"

She'd planned to return as Dr. Sinclair today. Instead, Julian had ambushed her and dragged her here.

Julian chuckled. "What does it look like? After the beating you gave me, did you really think I'd let that slide?" Humiliation still burned in his chest. No way was he walking away from this.

Harrison's fingers twitched toward her waist—then froze.

Her outfit had changed. The backstage costume was gone, replaced by a thin white sundress. No silver needles. No medicinal pouches.

Julian suddenly dropped onto the bed beside her. "Here's the deal, Harrison. You have two choices. Either get on your knees and beg for forgiveness, or..."

His gaze raked over her face. The stage makeup made her look even more striking—porcelain skin, full lips, eyes like dark fire. His pulse kicked up.

Harrison edged back. "Or what?"

Julian's smile turned predatory. "Or you become mine. If you agree, I'll consider that little incident just a lover's quarrel."

Again with this nonsense.

Harrison didn't hesitate. "Not happening."

Julian's expression darkened. "Don't be stupid, Harrison. Women line up for a chance with me."

She was done talking. In one fluid motion, she launched off the bed and bolted for the door.

She didn't make it.

Julian caught her wrist and flung her back onto the mattress. "If I can't have your heart," he growled, pinning her down, "then I'll take your body instead."

His hands tore at her dress.

"Get off!" Harrison fought like a wildcat, nails raking down his neck, drawing blood.

Julian only grinned wider. He backhanded her—hard.

Crack!

Stars exploded behind her eyes. Copper flooded her mouth. A thin trail of blood slid from her lip.

Julian ripped off his shirt, belt clinking as he unbuckled it. The sight of her beneath him—smooth skin, delicate collarbones, legs that went on forever—made his breath hitch. Even with all his conquests, she was different.

He shoved her skirt up, forcing her thighs apart. "I'm obsessed with you, Harrison. Just. Be. Mine."

Harrison screamed.