Trouble in Paradise

Gritting my teeth, I struggled to suppress the sensations coursing through my body. I softly reminded him, "Nicholas, it's my mom's funeral today."

I clung to his arms while my body trembled Uncontrollably, but my restrained look only seemed to drive him further into a frenzy.

His eyes, red with desire, locked onto me as if he'd been starving for ages. The force with which he thrust into me was overwhelming. I felt as though I was on the verge of being crushed.

I didn't dare make a sound. I feared that any attempt to speak might turn into a shameful moan. With my eyes closed, I bit down on my arm to keep from vocalizing the waves of pleasure. "Ari," he suddenly shouted, not hiding the pleasure in his voice.

At once, I opened my eyes. His shout was like thunder, splitting open a chasm in my heart. I hurt him.

He claimed not to want me to make a sound, but in reality, he was eager for others to know what we were doing.

His mocking gaze gradually turned to displeasure. He pulled away from me before he even found relief.

I knew he was angry. If I couldn't get through today, how would I ever mend the rift between us? I slid down the wall, eventually kneeling before him.

I reached out and took hold of him. He shuddered but didn't push me away. Instead, he closed his eyes in contentment.

I couldn't help but think, "Mom, is this what you meant by flattering a man? If you're watching from above, would you condone this transgression or commend me for my actions?"

There was no flirtatious ambiance between Nicholas and me, only a brutal form of retribution. It was a test of loyalty from the dominant to the subordinate, and the results seemed to please him.

He picked up my underwear from the floor and helped me clean my hands, showing an unusual gentleness. He then said something that was usually discussed in bed. "Aren't you cold without these?"

I was emotionless, but I managed a smile as I said, "My skirt is long."

Satisfied, he patted my head and pocketed my underwear. "I'll keep it for you."

I lowered my gaze, afraid to reveal the emotions in my eyes.

At that moment, I believed the person who sent Claudia to the hospital was indeed him. He was far more unrestrained than the husband I thought I knew.

He took my hand and led me out. By this time, the guests should have dispersed, but when we opened the door, Pete was standing about 30 feet away..

His eyes were red, and he pointed an accusing finger at me. "Ariana! It's Mrs. Jones' funeral today! You..."

Gritting his teeth, he glared fiercely at Nicholas but ultimately said nothing.

Nicholas tightened his grip on my shoulder. His grip was so firm it was painful, but I still managed a smile. "Of course, I know. My husband and I chose the venue and the date together." Pete was angry, and so was I, but getting mad wasn't going to solve anything. It was as if I had suddenly gained clarity overnight.

I no longer obsessed over whether or not Nicholas loved me. He had said he felt that question to be childish at 29, and now, at 26, I found myself feeling the same way.

I used to think Claudia lived in a palace built by Nicholas, but hadn't I done the same?

My palace was a construct of my dreams and the love my family once gave me. If my foolish dreams were shattered and my loved ones were gone, it was time for me to wake up.Nôvel(D)rama.Org's content.

"Do you think this is fair to Mrs. Jones? Aren't you worried you'll break her heart? He can't control his lust, but can't you? Are you really that horny?"

Honestly, it was pretty humiliating to have Pete call me out in public, but I couldn't worry about that right now.

I looped my arm through Nicholas' and headed toward the exit. As we passed by Pete, I whispered, "Honey, just ignore him. Some people are just powerless without rage." Pete was rendered speechless.