Wyatt watched Celine’s slender figure disappear, his face darkening. Night had fallen. Benjamin lay unconscious, while Celine dared not close her eyes. She had to stay alert. Her claim of being married hadn't deterred Wyatt; his wicked intentions were clearer than ever. She couldn't sleep, fearing for both herself and Benjamin.

Sitting alone at the doorway, Celine stared out at the mountain village. The silence was vast and almost ethereal. The snow-covered village exuded a biting loneliness, as though it marked the end of the world. Celine felt the cold seeping into her bones. A wave of discomfort spread through her body, and she realized she might be coming down with a fever. She had spent too long in the cold, and even the strongest body couldn't withstand it. She pinched her palm hard to stay awake, knowing danger could strike at any moment.

Her thoughts drifted to Adam. What was he doing? Was he keeping Carly company? Had he noticed she and Benjamin were missing? Would he come looking for them? Benjamin's leg injury was severe, and Wyatt's predatory eyes were watching. Celine had no idea how she was going to escape.

The cold became unbearable. Celine wrapped her arms around herself, resting her head against the doorframe as exhaustion overwhelmed her. Her eyes had barely closed when something rough and greasy brushed against her face. A hand greedily caressed her.

Celine's eyes snapped open. Wyatt stood beside her, his face twisted with lust as he stroked her cheek. Celine struggled weakly. "Mr. Lawson, why are you here again?" Her body felt heavy and sluggish, a creeping dread confirming something was wrong.

Wyatt had returned to his room but couldn't sleep. Every time he thought of Celine's stunning face, desire burned through him like fire. He had spent his entire life in this remote village. Even during his rare trips outside, he had never seen a woman as breathtaking as Celine. He had long coveted her.

He gave a lewd smile. "Ms. Tate, don't pretend you don't know. You must understand how I feel. I like you."

Celine shifted away from his hand. "Mr. Lawson, stop joking. I'm already married."

"Married or not, who will ever know what happens in this place?" Wyatt sneered and lunged at her. Celine's eyes widened with fear as she tried to dodge. Her limbs were heavy and unresponsive. Wyatt's strength overwhelmed her as he forced her to the ground. His hands began tearing at her clothes. "Ms. Tate, I like you so much. Just give in to me."

Pinned beneath him, Celine's stomach churned with revulsion. She fought with all her might. "Let me go! Mr. Lawson, calm down! My husband will come for me soon. He's rich and powerful. He won't let you get away with this!"

Wyatt, blinded by desire, ignored her. With a loud rip, he tore open the collar of her dress. He laughed wickedly. "Forget your husband. Tonight, I'm your husband!" He bent down, his breath hot and heavy, aiming to force a kiss on Celine.

Celine turned her head away, despair washing over her. Her body was too weak to fight back. Was this how it was going to end? "No! Let me go!" she cried out.

Just then, a strong hand reached from behind and grabbed the back of Wyatt's shirt. With a powerful yank, Wyatt was ripped off her. Celine felt her weight lifted as Wyatt was thrown aside.