Meanwhile, upstairs.
Jay's head throbbed with pain. A dull ringing echoed through his ears as he tried to move, only to realize his wrists were bound to the bed frame.
His heart raced when his vision cleared enough to see a figure standing near the window.
The woman turned, her expression serene but predatory.
"So you're finally awake," Payton purred. "I was beginning to think I'd have to wake you myself."
Jay's brows furrowed in confusion and anger. "Who are you? Where's my mother? Why am I tied up?"
Payton chuckled softly and approached him, her fingers brushing along the ropes.
"You'll understand soon. You see, your mother and I came to a little... agreement. You're going to be mine, Jay."
Jay's face darkened. "Yours? Are you insane? I already have someone I like. Please leave me alone!"
"That doesn't matter," she said with an indifferent shrug. "What matters is that you're handsome, educated, and your family has something I want...obedience."
