Natalia’s POV

I was baffled by Adrian’s question. Looking into his eyes, I saw rage; a turmoil of emotions evident in his demeanor.

“What do you mean?” I asked.

He moved toward me, but I pushed him back. “Don’t come near me. I’m disgusted.”

His body froze; a low growl escaped him. “Disgusted by what?”

“By you.”

His jaw tightened, as if he struggled to control his wrath. “What do you want, Adrian? Why do you keep bothering me? We talked on the phone last time. You said you hated me, and I accepted it. Our feelings are mutual. Now let me go.”

He didn't like my words. He grabbed my hand, pulling it from his chest. I shoved him with my other hand, but he grabbed that too, pinning both my arms above my head.

My eyes widened. “What are you doing?”

He lowered himself, gazing intently into my eyes. “Why? Why do you hate me so much? Wasn’t it supposed to be only me?”

My words had clearly hurt his ego. He wanted to be the one who hated me; my reciprocation apparently gave me equal footing. In his mind, only he had the right to hurt, hate, or insult me. Anything I did in return was unacceptable.

“A man like you deserves nothing but my hatred. If it hurts your ego, I don’t care,” I said coldly, regaining my composure. I wouldn't show him the weakness he craved—the Natalia who used to beg him for everything. That woman was gone.

Adrian said nothing, continuing to stare. I had no idea why he'd brought me here or what he was thinking.

Then, his black eyes softened—or perhaps it was an illusion. “I think we—”

He tilted his head, his mouth moving toward my neck, interrupting me. As his nose brushed my skin, I parted my lips, struggling against his grip. He sniffed my neck, eyes closed. I fought to break free. Failing, I kicked between his legs. He anticipated this, however.

To my surprise, he pressed his body against mine, raising his thigh between my legs, dangerously close to my core.

“Adrian! What the hell are you doing?” I yelled. The silence amplified my cry; there was no one to save me.

He moved his face from my neck to mine.

“You’re a pervert!” I spat, glaring at him.

He sneered. “Since you hate me, let me give you more reason.”

“What do you me—aahh!” He kissed my neck.

My body went numb. Realizing what he was doing, I shook my head, pushing him, causing my breasts to be squeezed against his chest. He began sucking my skin; I bit my lip.

“Let me go, you bastard!”

He ignored me. I wanted my wolf to take over, but she refused; she desired her mate. She seemed to enjoy what he was doing.

“The moment you leave me, no one can save you. I will kill you,” I warned, ceasing my struggle.

He paused, kissing my neck one last time before stepping back and releasing my hands. I immediately slapped him, but he caught my hand, twisting it behind my back, my palm near his cheek.

“Are you angry?” he asked, looking devilish. He touched my neck gently with his thumb. I hissed at the slight pain.

“Perfect!” he muttered.

I frowned. “Have you lost your mind?”

“Hmm,” he murmured, his gaze returning to mine. “You can’t do this all the time just because you’re the head Alpha. Are the other women playthings to you?”

He didn’t get angry, simply staring at me before replying, “But you’re not just any woman. You’re my woman.”

I was stunned. “W-What?”

He looked away, as if regretting his words. Clearing his throat, he said, “I mean, you’re my mate. I have rights over you.”

I glared. “You crossed a line. I will ruin you, Adrian Miller.”

“How? By snatching projects?”

“Shut up. Don’t come near me. I’ll tell your girlfriend.”

His expression changed at the mention of Lynda, as if he’d forgotten about her. I sneered; he smirked.

Who was this man? I’d never seen him like this. “Last time, I liked the idea of our council party photos being leaked. So I thought, ‘Why not make more breaking news tonight?’”

I narrowed my eyes. “What did you just say?”

He glanced at my neck, then winked. “You have my hickey now. Everyone will have new gossip tomorrow. Be ready.”