Sophie's heart raced as she tiptoed through the dimly lit corridors of Lucien's mansion. Every sound—her breath, the distant clinking of cutlery, the soft hum of voices—seemed amplified in the stillness. Her plan was simple: escape before anyone noticed.
The grand estate felt like a maze, with endless hallways and towering doors, but Sophie's determination burned brighter than her fear. She reached a side exit she had spotted earlier and pushed the door open, only to find herself face-to-face with two armed guards.
"Going somewhere?" one of them asked with a smirk.
Panic surged through her, and she turned to run, but the guards blocked her path. "You're not supposed to be out here," the other said sternly.
Sophie's heart sank as they escorted her back inside. The tight security made it clear: escaping was nearly impossible.
---
The News Reaches Lucien
Meanwhile, Lucien was in the middle of an important meeting with business associates in his lavish office. The room was filled with the sound of serious discussions and the clinking of glasses.
A knock on the door interrupted him. One of his staff entered, leaning down to whisper in his ear.
"Sir, the girl you brought to the mansion tried to escape."
Lucien's jaw clenched, and his eyes darkened. Without a word, he rose from his chair, ignoring the curious looks from his colleagues. His movements were brisk and calculated as he made his way back to the mansion.
---
The Confrontation
Sophie sat trembling on the edge of her bed, her mind racing with the consequences of her failed escape. The door to her room slammed open, and Lucien entered, his expression stormy.
Her breath caught in her throat as he strode toward her, radiating fury. For a moment, she thought he might actually hurt her.
But then, as he looked into her wide, fearful eyes, his anger seemed to dissipate. He exhaled heavily, running a hand through his hair before stepping closer to her.
Sophie instinctively backed away until her back hit the wall. Lucien placed his hand on the wall beside her, trapping her in place.
His voice was low, dangerous. "Don't ever try to escape again, unless you want to regret it."
Sophie's heart pounded in her chest as his cold words pierced her.
"I bought you with a huge amount of money," he continued, his gaze unwavering. "I can do whatever I want with you. I own you."
Her knees felt weak, and her chest tightened. She couldn't breathe.
Lucien straightened, his piercing gaze softening just slightly as he turned away. Without another word, he left her room, slamming the door behind him.
---
The Aftermath
Sophie collapsed onto her bed, tears streaming down her face. Her body shook with sobs, the weight of his words crushing her spirit.
In that moment, she realized just how powerless she was—and how dangerous Lucien could be.