Isabella’s POV
I broke a rule.
I knew it the moment I hit “send” on the message declining Damien’s instructions to come to his penthouse that evening.
It wasn’t just rebellion—it was fear. Of how much I was starting to crave him. Of how easily I obeyed. Of how much I liked surrendering.
I needed to breathe. To feel in control again. Even if it meant pushing him away.
And now, standing in front of his door again—summoned the next morning with just three chilling words:
“You disobeyed me.”
—I realized I had made a mistake.
The door opened before I could knock.
He stood there, shirt unbuttoned at the throat, sleeves rolled, his face unreadable. Too calm. That was worse than anger.
“Come in.”
I stepped inside. The door closed behind me with a click that made my spine stiffen.
He wa
