Chapter 160

Sebastian Royston's expression darkened the moment Sophia Lowell finished speaking.

His fingers tightened unconsciously as he stared at the woman weeping before him.

"Country bumpkin?" Sebastian sneered. "Then explain why Ethan Sullivan would go to such lengths for her."

Sophia froze at the question.

She instinctively touched her stinging cheek, tears still streaming. "She—she's just using her looks—"

"Idiot!" Sebastian suddenly exploded, grabbing her throat. "You think Ethan is the type to be swayed by beauty?"

Sophia's breath cut off instantly.

Her face turned crimson as her nails clawed bloody streaks across Sebastian's hand.

"Let...go..." She struggled desperately, her eyes rolling back.

But Sebastian seemed possessed, his grip tightening. He watched her contorted face with manic gleam in his eyes.

"You all think I'm inferior to Ethan, don't you?"

Sophia could no longer speak.

Her vision blurred as a buzzing filled her ears. The terror of death made her whole body tremble.

Just as she was about to lose consciousness, Sebastian abruptly released her.

"Cough—" Sophia collapsed, gasping for air, her face streaked with tears and snot.

Sebastian looked down at her, leisurely adjusting his cuffs. "Remember. Your life belongs to me now."

Sophia shuddered violently.

She looked up to see Sebastian's handsome face smiling gently, but his eyes were glacial.

"I...I understand..." She crawled forward on trembling limbs, prostrating at his feet like a dog.

Sebastian stroked her hair approvingly—then suddenly backhanded her again.

Slap!

Sophia's head snapped to the side, blood trickling from her lip. But she didn't dare cry out, forcing a servile smile instead.

"You're right to discipline me, Young Master Royston..."

Watching her grovel, Sebastian's eyes flashed with satisfaction. He gripped her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze.

"Remember. I own your life now. Betray me, and—"

"I won't!" Sophia shook her head frantically. "I'll always be yours!"

Sebastian released her and turned toward the window. His silhouette looked especially sinister against the night.

"Evelyn Laurent..." He murmured the name, a vicious glint in his eyes. "Let's see what you're really made of."