Helena's POV
The tension between the two men crackles like electricity in the air. Neither Patrick nor Victor shows any sign of backing down. Patrick shifts his weight restlessly while Victor maintains his composed demeanor.
"She's not leaving with you," Patrick finally snarls.
Victor's mouth curves into a satisfied grin. "I believe she might find my company quite agreeable."
My forehead creases with confusion. "Where exactly would that be?"
Victor moves closer, his fingertip trailing along the sensitive skin of my throat. "Somewhere warm."
The implications make me gulp hard, and I retreat a step from his proximity. The thought of descending to whatever realm Victor calls home sends chills through me.
His laughter rings out, but his attention shifts to Patrick with predatory focus. "Don't you have business to attend to downstairs?"
"I refuse to abandon her to you," Patrick snaps. "What guarantee do I have that you won't steal her away?"
