The Oracle's Revenge: My Purchased Marriage

The car slowed as it approached the estate.

"Stop," Gustavus ordered the driver.

He pointed out the window. "See that glint in the bushes?"

Heda squinted. A lens reflected the dying sunlight.

"Paparazzi," Gustavus said. "The stock is wobbly. Rumors say I'm dying or we're divorcing. We need a show."

He unbuckled his seatbelt. He turned his body, looming over her.

Heda pressed her back against the door. "Here?"

"Don't move," he commanded. "Smile. Like you love me."

He leaned in. He didn't kiss her lips. He pressed his cheek against hers, his nose brushing her ear. From the outside, through the tinted glass, it would look like a passionate embrace.

Flashes erupted from the bushes like lightning.

"Remember," Gustavus whispered, his voice ice cold against her skin, "that smile is worth ten million dollars. Screw this up, and I send you back to the trailer park."

Heda felt humiliation burn in her chest. She raised her hand, wrapping it around his neck. Her nails dug into the expensive fabric of his suit jacket.

"I'm a great actress, darling," she whispered back.

Gustavus pulled away. He straightened his tie. The intimacy evaporated instantly.

"Let's go."

They stepped out of the car. Heda took his arm. His bicep was hard as rock under her hand.

They walked to the door, the picture of marital bliss.

The door opened. Caspian stood there, holding a glass of red wine.

"Bravo," Caspian clapped slowly. "I'm moved to tears. Truly."

"Jealous, brother?" Gustavus asked, his voice smooth.

Caspian stepped forward. He looked Heda up and down, his eyes stripping her bare.

"You look ravishing tonight, sister-in-law. That dress... it looks very tearable."

Heda felt a shiver of revulsion.

Gustavus stepped in front of her. He placed a hand on the small of her back-possessive, heavy.

"Put your teeth away, Caspian. She's mine."

Caspian shrugged, stepping aside. "Mother is waiting."

They walked into the living room. Heda realized with a sinking feeling that Gustavus wasn't protecting her. He was protecting his property. But right now, she had to hide behind the monster she knew to escape the monster she feared.