Sera sat at the edge of her new bed. Her room was different—larger, warmer. But there was still no way out.
No windows could be opened. No lock from the inside. Just elegant furniture and silence that felt heavier than chains.
She paced slowly, brushing her fingers against the dark wooden wardrobe, the mirror reflecting her tired eyes. Everything looked exquisite… but felt like a golden cage. Beautiful, but still a cage.
The door opened. A woman entered with a tray of breakfast, followed by Vince in a dark suit. The aroma of coffee and toast filled the room, but it didn't make her feel better.
Sera stood up cautiously, instinctively stepping back. Vince raised his hand—calm, commanding. "Sit."
She obeyed without a word.
"There's a new rule," Vince said flatly. "From now on, you'll dine with me every evening. At the same table. With proper manners. Learn what it means to be mine."
Sera clenched her fists. "I don't belong to anyone."
Vince stepped closer until his presence filled her space.
"Not yet. But every day you're here, you get closer."
He lifted her chin, locking eyes with hers. "I can make you afraid, Sera. But I can also make you addicted."
Sera slapped his hand away. Her cheeks burned with anger and confusion. "Why are you keeping me here? Are you scared I'll talk?"
Vince gave her a slow, cold smile. "People already know who I am. But they also know what happens to those who defy me."
Sera's breath hitched. Her heartbeat pounded, his words echoing in her head like ropes tightening around her body.
Vince turned to leave, but paused at the door. "Tonight. Seven o'clock. Wear something appropriate. And don't test me."
Then he left, closing the door behind him.
Sera sat again, fingers clutching the bedsheet. Her eyes were blank, but her mind raced. Every step Vince took, every word—left thorns under her skin.
And the scariest part? A small piece of her… was no longer afraid. It was curious.
---
The next morning, the woman returned with another tray. But Sera didn't touch her food. She kept staring out the window, even though it was sealed shut.
Evening came. She stayed where she was. She didn't go to the dining room. Didn't follow his order.
Time passed. Tick. Tick. Tick.
Until the door opened with force. Vince entered.
He didn't shout. Didn't scold. Just looked at her from across the room.
"So this is your first rebellion," he said quietly.
Sera said nothing. Her hands trembled, but she held her ground.
"I admire the effort," he continued. "But you forget one thing…"
He stepped closer. Not rushed. Steady.
"You're still in my world, Sera. And in my world, disobedience has a price."
His voice remained calm, but his eyes burned.
Sera swallowed. She didn't run. Didn't apologize.
Because even in fear… a part of her wanted to know what would happen next.