My hand closed on nothing.
The door creaked open. Mason stood in the doorway, exhaustion carved into every line of his face. For a split second, something flickered in his eyes when he saw me awake—something almost human.
He buried it instantly.
A dress landed on my bed.
"There's a charity gala tonight." His tone was flat, businesslike. "Rebecca specifically requested you accompany her."
I picked up the dress with trembling hands, but my gaze drifted to the clock on the wall.
Today was the last day of the week.
The last day of my life.
Mason watched me—my stillness, my lack of reaction. Something about it made him step closer. His hand shot out, fingers closing around my wrist like a vice.
"Chloe." His voice was low, dangerous. "If the knot between us can't be undone, then I won't let you go. Even if we're both trapped in this hatred forever, I will never release you. Don't ever think about escaping me."
I looked into those eyes—so familiar, yet belonging to a stranger.
Slowly, I nodded.
"This time," I whispered, "I won't run."
Because I'll be dead before the night is over.
That evening, I accompanied Mason to the gala.