บท 317: After this ends...

"I will stay here. Remember, Es. As long as you obey me, you have nothing to lose. All you have to do is be my good wife,'' As Jeremiah and Esme walked side by side on the hallway, he raised a hand and wrapped it around her waist, gaining a flurry of awed whisper from the maids who witnessed their 'affectionate' moment.

Esme struggled against his grip but his fingers twisted her the fabric of her gown, digging harder into her flesh through her clothes till she could feel the pain. 

''And the moment you try to rebel, it will be the end for the both of us. I have worked for ages for this day, Es. If you ruin it for me, I will ruin your life. Your existence. Everything you hold dear,'' Still with a charming smile fixated on his face, Jeremiah uttered the words as if he was whispering sweet nothings in Esme's ear. 

''Why me?" Esme mumbled, her lips pursing at the pain of his fingers digging in her skin.