Dive into Temptation [ManxBoy]

34. Free of Him

A/N: Let's see how you do with a 5,600 word chapter. Very long so hang in there, try to hold out until the end. Please go easy on me while you're hating Adam. It was hard for me to publish this one knowing I'm going to disappoint a lot of y'all.

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As we pulled up to Dom's house, my heart sank. The weight of what awaited me there felt suffocating. I had been staying with Ryan, but it was clear that his dad wanted me gone. Plus, all my school stuff was still at Dom's place, so I had no choice but to face him.

Ryan's dad commented on how beautiful Dom's house was, unaware of the tension it held for me. I didn't want to indirectly compliment Dom by acknowledging his luxurious home so I let out a sigh and unbuckled my seatbelt.

Before I could step out, though, Ryan grabbed my hand, his eyes darting to the front seat to ensure his dad didn't see. His voice was barely a whisper as he spoke, "Please be safe. Call me if you need anything," he said, squeezing my hand gently.

I glanced down at our intertwined fingers, grateful that Ryan wasn't insisting on coming inside with me. I knew it would only make Dom lose control, possibly even turn violent towards Ryan. He sure looked angry enough the last time I saw him. With a heavy sigh, I let go of Ryan's hand and stepped out of the car.

"Thanks for the ride," I leaned down to look into the car and Ryans dad gave a nod of goodbye. Ryan wore a frown, hurt that I hadn't addressed his concern or acknowledged our hand-holding. I closed the car door and watched them drive away, leaving me alone to face the lion in his den.

I turned back to face the stunning house, hiding the monster within. As I got closer, I couldn't resist peeking through the garage window. Dominic's car was there, but Lily's was missing, probably still at work. My stomach dropped, realizing I wouldn't have the safety net of Lily's presence to shield me from Dom's anger.

I tried the front door, only to find it locked. Dread washed over me, hoping I could slip in unnoticed and make my way to my bedroom. I pulled out my keys, gripping them tightly to muffle any jingling sounds. I successfully unlocked the door and pushed it open, quietly stepping inside. Relief flooded me when I didn't spot Dominic anywhere. He was either locked away in his office, busy in his fitness room, or lurking in the backyard.

Suddenly, a loud meow of greeting startled me, and I noticed Betty Grey rubbing against my ankles. I tried to shoo her away discreetly, gently nudging the traitor. Of course, she was on Dom's side, announcing my presence to the silent house. I heard the kitchen patio door open and slam shut, and my heart raced. Without hesitation, I sprinted towards my room, hoping to cut him off and lock him out before he could get to me.

But just as I turned the corner towards my bedroom, Dominic emerged from the opposite end, clearly having sprinted as well. He stood there, shirtless, in the dimly lit hallway, his gaze fixed on me.

"Welcome home," he said, his voice chilling and sending shivers down my spine. He remained motionless, blocking my path to my bedroom door.

I could feel the tension building as I stood across the hall from Dominic, his presence looming over me. The weight of his gaze made it hard to breathe, and I could sense the storm brewing beneath his calm facade.

I mustered up a weak "Thanks" in response, my voice barely audible. The silence that followed was suffocating, each passing second filled with uncertainty and fear. I took a hesitant step forward, my heart pounding in my chest, unsure of what would happen next.

As I approached him, his voice cut through the silence like a knife. "You've been missed," he said, his tone chillingly composed. It sent a shiver down my spine, knowing that his anger was simmering just beneath the surface.