The Unwavering Heart That Broke novel Chapter 74

Nathalie was pinned beneath him, her struggles growing weaker with every passing second. The scent of alcohol on his skin drifted over her, pulling her into a haze, making her feel as tipsy as he was.

Feeling her body relax, Lance eased his hold a little.

Then, suddenly, a sharp slap sliced through the silence.

A vivid handprint bloomed on Lance’s cheek. He froze, his eyes burning with a storm he barely tried to hide as he stared at her.

Nathalie’s hand was shaking, but she forced her voice to stay steady. “I told you, I don’t want this.”

Lance touched his face, his tongue pressing against his cheek, his eyes slipping into something wild. “Are you going to hit me again?”

Nathalie just looked at him, confused and breathless.

Before she could react, Lance reached out and ripped her clothes apart. “If you’re not, then I’m not stopping.”

Her eyes flew wide open, disbelief written all over her face. Before she could move or speak, his lips were on hers, leaving her no room to fight back.

The night dragged on, slow and endless.

Much later, when Nathalie’s breathing finally steadied, she lay facedown on the bed. He pressed gentle kisses to her shoulder, his features softened with satisfaction.

She kept her eyes closed, her voice rough as she spoke. “I need a shower.”

“I’ll run you a bath.” Lance’s voice was gentler now.

He slipped out of bed and headed to the bathroom.

Nathalie bit down on her lip hard, anger and frustration burning inside her.

Just then, her phone chimed. She took a deep breath and grabbed it.

An anonymous email.

She opened it. Attached was a photo.

Now, she was shaking with rage, glaring at him like he was a stranger.

Lance looked completely lost. “You flip so fast, Nathalie. Can’t you just tell me what’s wrong?”

“I’ve told you a hundred times, but you never really listen. Why should I even bother?” Nathalie pushed him away, pointing to the door. “Just leave, or I will.”

“Nathalie…” Lance frowned, still wanting to say something.

But she had already turned away, walking toward the front door.

She was only wearing a nightgown, her hair a mess, the pale skin of her chest covered in marks. She couldn’t step outside like that.

Lance hurried over and blocked her way. “Fine. I’ll go.”

He grabbed his clothes, pulled them on, and walked out the door. As soon as it shut behind him, Nathalie dropped to the carpet, feeling as if every ounce of strength had drained from her body.