00:00The ink on the contract feels like a permanent death sentence.
00:02I am legally bound to Dante, a prisoner wrapped in expensive silk.
00:07Before my tears can even dry, the heavy bedroom doors swing open without a knock.
00:15Dante! Is this my beautiful new daughter-in-law?
00:30Dante's hand instantly clamps onto my waist. His grip is a silent warning to play along.
00:36Yes, Mother. This is Elena. We couldn't wait to share the news.
00:47I must say, Elena, you are a breath of fresh air. I was terrified Dante would never settle down.
00:54I lie, forcing a smile while my stomach churns with disgust.
00:57He treats me very well, Mrs. Thorne.
01:00Reality is entirely different. Dante's massive hand rests heavily on my bare thigh.
01:04As Diana speaks, his rough fingers slide higher, bruising my flesh. My breathing hitches.
01:08I try to subtly push his hand away, but his grip only tightens like a steel vice,
01:12sending a sharp jolt of pain at my spine. My eyes burn red with unshed tears.
01:16Are you alright, dear? You look flushed.
01:19I'm fine. The wine is just a bit strong.
01:22I choke out the words, reaching for my water glass.
01:24As I extend my trembling arm, the long sleeve of my gown slips back slightly.
01:27Diana stops cutting her steak. The cheerful smile vanishes from her face.
01:31Her sharp, calculating eyes lock instantly onto the dark, violent bruises circling my delicate wrist,
01:36the exact marks Dante left when he dragged me out of the escape car.
01:40The silence in the dining room becomes deafening.
01:42The air grows instantly thick with unspoken tension.
01:45Diana slowly sets down her silver knife.
01:47Her gaze snaps from my bruised wrist directly to her son.
01:50Diana's voice drops to a dangerous, icy hush.
01:54Dante.
01:58What exactly did you...
02:00What exactly did you...
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