Madelyn attempted to pull her hand from Zach's grip, but he held firm. Turning to him, her eyes displayed a hint of emotion. Her brows knitted slightly, her voice barely more than a whisper, "What do you want?"

"We have servants here. You don't need to take care of things."

"Servants who are loyal to you. You probably have a better idea than I do about what happened to my father. After all that's happened, do you genuinely believe I'd trust you?" Her eyes held a challenge, but then she looked away, "No matter what happens with my father, I'll do what's expected of me. In the end, you'll have control of our family's wealth, and no one will stand in your way."

Madelyn tried to pull away, but just as she stepped into Hayson's room, Zach swiftly drew her back to him.

All the things Madelyn held dropped to the floor. He carried her up the stairs.

His movements were decisive, almost predatory.

"You seem to know so much, so why fight it?" he taunted.

When he set her down, she was back