His Destructive, Toxic Love

A chill ran through her, freezing her heart in its grip. Eliza's lips curled into a cold, mocking smile.

It wasn't that she was afraid to say that. She just didn't see the point anymore. She was done trying to prove her innocence, begging him to understand.

"Casper, why are we still dragging this out? Aren't you tired of this pointless, painful mess? Seriously, let's just get a divorce."

Casper's eyes widened for a moment. Divorce? He thought she'd never bring it up again. Was it because of Aaron? Or was there someone else?

"Oh, so are you tired of playing house? Are you looking to upgrade to Mrs. Martin, Mrs. Lynch, or Mrs. Gillum? Are you open to any of those titles?" His voice dripped with sarcasm, like he'd just heard the world's biggest joke. The smirk on his face radiated mockery and disdain.

Eliza pulled her clothes tighter around her, her gaze steady. "I think I've almost paid my dues, even if you think I owe Nova something. Just let me go. Let my family go. I'd be grateful, okay?"

"You don't think you deserve this?" His eyes were sharp, cutting into her like a knife.

It didn't matter anymore; she was numb to the pain. As long as she could get away, she wouldn't complain, even if she had just one breath left.

"Sure, I deserve it. But does my family deserve it? If I'd known marrying you would lead here, I'd never have chosen love."

"So, have you found someone else?" He sneered.

She was too exhausted to explain. "Fine, let's just say I have."

"Say that again?" His eyes darkened as he grabbed her neck. "I dare you."

Her face tightened as she struggled to breathe, her eyes burning with resentment as she stared him down. "Casper, have you forgotten how you framed my dad? How you drove Robin insane? Have you forgotten these past two years of hell?"

Her eyes were bloodshot, tears streaming down her face. She'd never hated anyone more. This was the first time she'd stood up to him, and it showed a fierce

ele

determination. If it came to it, she wasn't afraid of dying. She had

nothing left to lose.

His grip loosened, a flicker of surprise in his eyes. "Haven't I explained Robin's situation? And your father? His own dirty dealings got him reported."

He spoke as if it were all his actions were justified. It was as if he had no part in it. Eliza's tear-filled eyes were heavy with disappointment. She knew he'd never admit it. She'd find out herself if Robin had assaulted Nova and why her father was

arrested and died in prison.

Casper tightened his grip on her chin, disliking her defiance. "If you think you can settle scores with me, you're mistaken. You'd better behave and stay as Mrs. Welton, or else..." Or else her family wouldn't be safe. She understood his threat all too well.

Eliza glared at him, her lips trembling as she bit down hard. He pinched her face, forcing her to relax, and then crushed his lips against hers.