An Instrument of Pleasure or Pain

**AURORA**

The red room surrounded me, its crimson glow making everything look like it was bathed in blood. My heart pounded so hard I could feel it in my throat.

Kian stood before me, his eyes dark and hungry. In this light, with shadows cutting across his face, he looked like a demon come to claim my soul.

"Are you sure about this?" he asked, his voice deeper than I'd ever heard it. "Once we begin, there's no turning back. I need to know you're absolutely certain."

I swallowed hard. The toys lining the walls seemed to watch me, waiting for my decision. Everything about this room screamed danger, but I couldn't deny the thrill rushing through my veins.

"I want to know all of you," I whispered. "Even the parts that frighten me."

Something shifted in his expression—a flash of vulnerability quickly buried beneath dominance.

"Then you belong to me now."