Alice's POV

Robert's grip on my wrist loosened abruptly.

Unexpectantly, he held my chin, forcing me to meet his gaze.

"Alice, you say you hate me?"

"You actually hate me?"

He burst into laughter incredulously, his hand gradually moving from my chin to my neck.

I felt like I couldn't breathe.

I didn't pound his arms and make him release me.

Instead, I obediently lowered my limbs, allowing him to twist my neck freely.

It felt like I had returned to the days in the Sanctuary: facing violence, my only option was submission.

If he wanted to kill me, he could do it now.

My life belonged to anyone but...