The ceremony had been quick, efficient. Elena barely remembered the words spoken, only the weight of the ring on her finger and the possessive way Alessandro had gripped her waist when he kissed her in front of everyone. It hadn't been a soft, tender kiss—it had been a declaration, a warning to everyone watching that she was his.
Now, she stood in their bedroom, heart pounding as she watched Alessandro loosen his tie, his dark eyes fixed on her like a predator sizing up his prey.
"You're my wife now," he murmured, stepping closer. "There's no escape, Elena."
She swallowed hard, backing away until her legs hit the edge of the massive bed. "You can't expect me to just—"
"I expect you to obey," he cut in, his voice a dangerous growl. "I expect you to submit."
Her pulse quickened as he reached for her, his hands gripping her hips, pulling her against him. His heat was overwhelming, his strength undeniable. "Alessandro, please—"
He silenced her with a bruising kiss, his mouth claiming hers with an intensity that stole her breath. She fought, pushing against his chest, but he was unmovable. His grip tightened, his lips devouring hers until she melted against him, her body betraying her mind.
When he pulled away, his smirk was dark, triumphant. "You can deny it all you want, but your body tells me the truth."
Tears burned in her eyes, but she refused to let them fall. "You don't own me."
His fingers traced down her arm, slow and deliberate. "Oh, but I do, bella. And tonight, I'll make sure you never forget it."
She gasped as he lifted her effortlessly, tossing her onto the bed. He was on her in an instant, his weight pinning her down, his breath hot against her ear.
"Mine," he whispered before claiming her once more.