𝐁𝐀𝐁𝐘𝐆𝐈𝐑𝐋 [18+]

- 27 -

She thinks she's strong, that she can resist me, but I see the cracks in her armour. Every time she tries to stand her ground, I find another way to chip away at her defences. She doesn't realize it yet, but she's already mine.

I take another sip of my protein shake, feeling the cold liquid slide down my throat. I've spent months observing her, learning every little detail.

I watched Zara as she hesitated, her fork still resting on the edge of her plate.

She finally picks up her fork again, taking another bite, and I can't help the small smile that tugs at my lips. She's trying so hard to act like she doesn't care like I don't affect her, but I know better. Every time she eats, it's a small victory for me, a sign that she's giving in, even if she doesn't realize it yet.

"Good girl," I say softly, watching her eyes flash with anger at the patronizing tone. I enjoy pushing her buttons and seeing the fire in her eyes. It makes the game more interesting.

She swallows her food and sets down her fork, looking at me with that defiance I've come to love.

I lean in closer, so close that I can feel her breath hitch. "I love your defiance, turns me the fuck on."

Her eyes widen slightly, and I can see the fear mingling with her anger. Good. Fear is a powerful tool, one I know how to wield all too well. I reach out and tuck a strand of hair behind her ear, an almost tender gesture, but the way she flinches tells me she knows better than to believe it.

"I think we're done here," I say, standing up and tossing some bills onto the table. I offer her my hand, knowing she'll hesitate but eventually take it. She doesn't have a choice—not really.

"Fuck off," she says, tossing a napkin onto her empty plate. "I'm not going anywhere with you."

I shrug, taking another bite of my breakfast. "Suit yourself," I say. "But if you don't, I'll make your life a living hell."

She scoffs, rolling her eyes. "What are you going to do? Ruin me?"

I smile, chewing slowly before swallowing. "I already have."

She pauses, her gaze narrowing at me. "You have no idea who I am, do you?" she says, her tone cold."What I'm capable of?"

"I don't need to." I reach across the brushing my fingers through her hair.

She slaps my hand away, her expression hardening. I chuckle, leaning back in my seat and folding my arms over my chest.

"I don't have time to play games, Zara."

"Well, neither do I." She stands, throwing her napkin onto the table.

"I'm out of here."

"Zara..." I warn. My voice is low and dangerous, and it sends a shiver down her spine. She stops, turning back to me with a glare."I'm not afraid of you."