Aiden's POV
The torn fabric gave way under my fingers, exposing the smooth skin beneath. I pressed down harder, my body covering hers, driven by a storm of rage and raw need. She was mine. She'd always been mine. I wasn't going to lose her to Lucian or anyone else.
"Get off me!" Alina snarled, twisting violently beneath me. Her knee shot up, catching me hard in the side. I grunted but didn't loosen my grip on her wrists. My mouth crashed down toward her neck, teeth grazing skin as I tried to pin her completely.
She bucked again, harder this time, her free leg kicking out. Years of suppressed strength exploded from her. With a fierce cry, she wrenched one arm free and slammed her palm into my jaw. The impact snapped my head back. Before I could recover, she shoved me with everything she had, rolling us until she slipped out from under me.
Alina scrambled off the bed, dress hanging off one shoulder, and bolted for the door. She didn't look back.
