In an instant, two burly men in suits came from the shadows, their hands closing around my arms in a strong grip. I struggled against them, kicking and snarling, but their hold was so strong.
"Let go of me, you bastards!" I screamed, thrashing wildly. "Kieran, you coward! Fight me yourself, you fucking-"
My words were cut off as one of the guards landed a swift blow to my stomach, knocking the wind out of me. I bent over, gasping for breath, and the guards took the opportunity to tighten their hold.
Kieran stepped forward, his expression unreadable. "I warned you, Selena. Now, you will apologize to Nina, or there will be consequences."
Now I was made to apologize to his mistress for doing absolutely nothing wrong. I was the one hurt and yet he couldn’t defend me or protect me. I wasn’t going to give in no matter what.
I lifted my head, glaring at him through narrowed eyes. "Go to hell, Kieran. I'll never apologize to that bitch, no matter what you do to me."
Nina huffed. "Oh, Selena. You really are a stubborn one, aren't you? You know, I think it's only fair that you pay for what you've done. Kieran, she needs to be punished."
Kieran hesitated, his gaze flickering between us. I could see the conflict in his eyes. It was as if he was wondering whether or not it was the right thing to do.
Finally, he exhaled deeply. "Very well, Nina. You’re free to do what you must."
Nina's face lit up triumphantly, and she stepped forward. She raised a hand and I braced myself for the blow.
It came hard and fast, the sharp crack of her palm against my cheek. I tasted blood, and I knew my lip was split.
"Now, crawl on your knees, kiss my feet and beg for my forgiveness. Maybe I’ll forgive you."
I could feel the blood trickling down my chin, but I refused to show weakness. Instead, a mirthless laugh escaped my lips.
"You can keep dreaming, because it's not happening, not even in a million years." I spat.
Her eyes narrowed, and she hit me again. This time, the blow was even harder, sending my head snapping to the side. I could feel the sting of the impact, but I refused to cry out.
"I said, on your knees!" she screamed, her face twisted with fury.
"Go to hell," I growled, spitting a mouthful of blood onto the floor.
Kieran sighed impatiently. "Are you enjoying this Selena ? Just do as you are told so everything can be alright again. Or don’t you want to fulfil your dying mother’s wish? "