Page 14 of Fallen Dane

Nothing, except I’ve thought about that night for twenty years and finally lived out that fantasy last night.

“Nothing happened,” I say. And it’s not a lie. Nothing happened back then because he wasn’t allowed to have me.

Until now.

“Okay.” Sloane doesn’t sound convinced. “But Mom, are you okay? Like really okay? I know you said you’re safe, but Dane Sinclair has a reputation. He’s a dangerous man.”

I stare at the marks on my wrists.

“I’m fine, baby. I promise.”

“He didn’t hurt you, did he? The auction is fucked up enough as it is, but it bothered me less when I thought you’d end up with someone of your choosing.”

That was exactly why I told Sloane about Harrison.

At least I can answer my daughter honestly to ease her worry.

Dane tied me up and made me beg and fucked me until I couldn’t think straight. He marked every inch of my skin so I’d remember who I belonged to. He made me come so hard I screamed his name loud enough for the entire house to hear.

But he didn’t hurt me.

“No, he didn’t hurt me.”

“Okay.” Her voice softens. “But if anything changes, if you need anything—”

“I’m quite resourceful, I assure you. How’s the dorm?” I’ve already killed one husband. How difficult could it be to kill another? Besides, I’d much rather talk about her life than mine.

“It’s good. My roommate seems nice. We went to some orientation thing last night.”

“I’m glad.” My throat tightens. “You get to choose your future now, baby. That’s all I ever wanted for you.”

She’ll marry a Raven, but it doesn’t have to be one of the assholes. Other women would wonder why we don’t run. Why we continue to stay in this world run by controlling fucks.

But it seems that is the case everywhere, so I’d rather operate with the devil I know.

“I love you, Mom.”

“I love you too.” I force myself to sound steady. “Now go do something fun and reckless, college girl.”

She laughs. “Okay. Call me later?”

“I will.”

We hang up, and I sit there staring at my phone.

Sloane is safe. That is what matters.

She doesn’t know I killed her father, and if I can help it, she never will.

I’m about to get up to shower when my phone buzzes with a text.

Unknown Number: We need to talk. I’ll find you soon.

Fuck. I know exactly who it is.

I stare at the message. I knew Harrison wouldn’t just forget about our arrangement.

I don’t know how I'm going to be able to help him now. And Dane won’t want me anywhere near Harrison. He’s already suspicious and doesn’t believe me after his questions last night.