"Don't you fucking dare!" My father suddenly yelled, causing me to look up, fear reverberating through me as I met his rage filled eyes.

I could hear Florian chuckle behind me, and I swallowed hard, gripping the pen tighter. All I wanted was to run behind Florian and hide, but I knew I should start sucking up for myself now. Against the abuse. Against the pain.

I sniffed hard, then looked up, meeting his eyes.

"Why not? Why did you let go of your little company, Mr. Frederick?"

Florian broke into a laugh behind me, and it only thickened my skin, only made me want to go lower than I...