The Demon’s Claim

Odetta's gaze locked onto Cassiano's, and she saw hurt simmering in his eyes. She loved him, but she also loved Emanuel . The weight of her conflicting emotions threatened to suffocate her.

"So, you're getting married," Cassiano said, his voice laced with a mix of sadness and resignation. "Congratulations."

Odetta took a step closer to him, her heart aching, "Cass, you mean a lot to me. I hope you'll attend..I just…" she sighed, knowing how he would feel about attending her wedding to his brother.

Cassiano's face twisted into a wry smile, "I'll be there," his voice barely above a whisper.

Odetta's arms wrapped around him, pulling him into a thight hug. But their moment was short-lived.

The door bust open, and Emanuele's furious gaze locked onto the embracing pair. Odetta's eyes widened, as Cassiano smirked, igniting Emanuele's anger.

With a swift motion, Emanuele strode over and punched Cassiano in the face, sending him stumbling back. Blood dripped from Cassiano's lip as Odetta rushed to his side.

"Cass!" She shouted, but Emanuele's grip on her hair halted her.

He pulled her out of the room, leaving Cassiano behind. A sly smile still played on Cassiano's lips, fueled by the knowledge that he had gotten under his brother's skin.

Emanuele dragged Odetta into his room, releasing her hair and pushing her onto the bed.Her body bounced with the force, and she winced in pain.

"Emanuele, please listen," She begged.

"Not another word." He growled.

Odetta was his and he would stop at nothing to keep her.