“Oh, but there is one more thing I failed to mention.” He turned just as Cora was about to depart the room, he went on to say, “Since you want so badly to leave despite my generous offer, I am assuming you broke a cardinal rule… which means I can’t let you leave until I make an example out of you. Don’t bother trying to run… I have men outside the door and I have but to say the word. I suggest you cooperate and make it easier on yourself.” He smiled that sick smile of his again, like the cat that ate the canary. Oh, but he was having too much fun with all of this, he thought with unsuppressed glee.

To be able to have entertainment to lighten his foul mood, well… that was unexpected. He moved up behind her and breathed into her ear knowing full well that it would probably repulse her. “Now walk with me.” It was not a request.