Ninety-Nine Engagements, One Betrayal

na

ting Everleigh up to stealing a painting? I had been heartbro

y would I do something like that? And why would Eve

ht, almost bruising. "Don't play coy, Dayna! I know you're upset. But this i

ut he held me fast. "Let go of

ou will tell them the painting was a gift from you. A misunde

rotect Everleigh, again. The ultimate betrayal. My sister's le

I won't. I won't lie for her. I won't protect her

l, Dayna. You will do this for me. For us." His voice dropp

on his arm, biting him with all my might. He cried out, a guttural s

determined to be difficult, aren't you?" He shook his head, a chilling ce

" I screamed, the words

er be truly silent. You're too full of life to end it. Besides," he leaned in close, his voice

uldn't kill myself. I wouldn't. Because he wasn't worth it. And in that moment, something shifted inside me. The de

my voice surprisingly ca

is face. He thought he had won

ining strength. "And I'm not doing anything for you, or for E

kening thud. "Fine, Dayna! You want to play hardball? We'll play hardball!" He pulled out his phone, his fingers flying across

ntil you learn your place. Until you agree to do what's necessary." He walked out, his parting words echoing in the sudden silenc