VALERIA

I sat up immediately, pressing myself against the intricate steel headboard carved with black roses and leaves, imitating a dark garden.

My legs were pulled protectively against my chest.

The clinking of the heavy chain echoed in the room, as did his approaching footsteps at the edge of the immense bed.

I looked at him with a mix of fear and unease as his features became clearer: ebony-black hair, blood-red eyes, and that cynical smile on his refined lips.

"What do you want from me?" I