"Punish me?" Violet said nervously, despite her attempt at bravery.
"Of course, my purple queen," Asher replied smoothly, his tone like silk laced with steel.
He reached out and ran his hand through her hair, the gesture so tender it was almost cruel. The contrast between his soft touch and the darkness in his voice sent chills racing down her spine. "You tried to run away from me, Violet. What queen runs from her king?"
"A king who is a manipulative, psychopathic jerk! And I've told you already, I'm not your queen! Stop calling me that!" she hissed, her golden eyes flashing.
For a brief moment, something flickered in Asher's eyes, an emotion she couldn't exactly name. But then he yanked her hair suddenly and sharply, forcing her to gasp as pain flared at her scalp.
God's damn him!
Asher leaned in close, his breath warm against her ear, and whispered, "I told you, little purple, you're mine."
