Consequences

"John, don't be mad," she said, her voice soothing and melodic. "I had to do it. I didn't want you to refuse me."

"What did you do to me?" John demanded, his voice a low growl.

"It's just a charm skill," she said, averting her gaze.

"So what was that about, yesterday? You can't ask for a stupid favour, so you have sex with me instead?"

Laura's eyes widened. "No, of course not! John, I already consider myself your woman, that has nothing to do with this."

More of the faint glow emanated from her and passed through John. He raised his hand and cupped her cheek. She leaned into his touch, and a smile formed on her lips, but her expression changed into panic when John's hand trailed down towards her neck and squeezed.

"You know, if I was a weaker man, you would have had your way with me," John said, his grip tightening. "I could snap your neck like a twig right now."

Laura gasped, her eyes watering. "John, please. You're hurting me."