Cassio wasn't sure if he meant them - part of him wanted to scare her, but another part wondered what it would be like if she actually left. Would it be easier, or would it break him?
Verena didn't flinch at his harsh tone. Instead, she turned to face him, her expression hard. "You can't control me with your threats," she said, her voice firm. "I'm not afraid of you, Cassio."
The words were like a knife to his chest, cutting through the layers of anger and frustration to something deeper, something raw and painful. She wasn't afraid of him. Maybe she should have been. Maybe if she were, things would be different. But the truth was, he wasn't sure if he wanted her to fear him. Respect, yes. Obedience, absolutely. But fear? That wasn't what he wanted from her—not anymore.
