When Ryder issued his command, something inside me shattered, but I refused to let anyone take my place without a fight.

Mooncrest had been my sanctuary, despite the strained relationships with my stepmother and stepsister. But now, thrust into this unfair marriage, I couldn't stand by and watch them find happiness at my expense. Never.

"Babe, I am thirsty," the other woman demanded. "I want a glass of fresh orange juice."

“Sure, babe. Nova,” Ryder called out to me, his tone betraying no hint of remorse. “You heard what she wanted, didn't you? Get it ready and bring it here,” he ordered, as if I were nothing more than a...