"Even if you're the villain, I'll love you anyways."

The room was dim, the soft glow of the evening light filtering through the curtains. Silence hung between us, broken only by the slow, steady rhythm of Atlas's breathing. His arms were wrapped around me, his body curved protectively around mine, like he was afraid I'd slip away if he let go.

I tried to move—to shift just a little—but the second I did, a sharp ache spread through my limbs—the deep, knowing ache that settled into my bones,. I barely bit back a whimper, my body protesting the ruthless pace he'd set earlier—a reminder of just how thoroughly Atlas had ruined me.

Goodness. He really took my words for it.

A soft breath of laughter escaped me as I sank back into the pillows, my muscles weak, my skin warm where it pressed against his. There was no escaping him, not that I wanted to. He held me like I was his entire world, his grip firm but gentle, like he was terrified I'd disappear the moment he loosened his hold.