Three years ago, Layla Worthington escaped a life of luxury-and a husband who nearly killed her. Dean Worthington, handsome billionaire CEO, is charming to the world... but cruel and controlling behind closed doors. After one violent night left Layla on the brink of death, she ran, determined never to let him find her again. Now, she's built a quiet life in Seaford, Delaware, working as a small-town doctor and finally tasting freedom. But Dean refuses to let her go. Consumed by obsession and regret, he's tracked her down, determined to reclaim what he believes is his, no matter the cost. CONTENT WARNING: This story features a deliberately soft submissive - leaning female lead. She is not your typical "strong, independent heroine." The male lead has a history of cheating and physically abusing her and the plot follows his attempt to win her back. This is the typical romance with some familiar tropes, so if redemption arcs, flawed male leads, and trope-heavy stories aren't your thing, this book is not for you. Thanks!

She felt the heat of his body at her back before she saw his hand. His fingers grazed her skin, just barely, as he found the zipper and slowly, so slowly, pulled it up. It wasn't just a zip. It was a claim. A warning. "I should break his nose for looking at you the way he did," he whispered at her ear. "But that wouldn't be enough." Her breath caught. He hadn't touched her, not really. But it felt like too much. Like he'd branded her. "And you," he went on, voice low, lips grazing the curve of her neck without touching, "walking around this place in nothing but that swimsuit... you knew what you were doing." She swallowed hard. "Maybe I did." His hands lingered at her waist, holding her in place. Possessive. Undeniable. "You like making me jealous," he said, voice husky. "But just remember, Chloe... jealousy makes me dangerous." ***Content Warning*** This story contains mature themes including sexual content, emotional manipulation, morally complex relationships, cheating, and adult language. Reader discretion is advised RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 18+ Copyright Disclaimer © MaryRose 2025 This is a work of fiction. All characters, events, and settings are the products of the author's imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or real events is purely coincidental. No part of this story may be copied, reproduced, or distributed in any form without the author's express written permission.