Embarrassment flooded through her body, just as strongly as her shame at the fact that his violent treatment was beginning to stir her arousal. But beyond all of that was a sense of determination, a desire to prove to Renz, and to herself, that she was strong enough to satisfy the carnal desires of the man she loved.

She would not beware Renz, as Ilise had warned her.

Lena would face him, and all he had to offer, with bravery.

Her vision fully clouded with her tears, and Renz became no more than a groaning silhouette towering above her. His grip tightened in her hair, pulling her mouth harder onto...