Semua Bab Killing Me Slowly: A Dark Twisted Slow-Burn Auction Romance: Bab 31 - Bab 39

As I walked down the hall, I contemplated my next steps.I needed to ensure Amina’s safety and teach her the ropes of my world without breaking her spirit.The stakes were high, and the last thing I wanted was for her to become a liability.I stopped in my tracks as a familiar voice pulled me from my thoughts.“Arben!”It was Li, one of my most trusted associates, his expression unreadable. “What’s going on? I heard the auction went well, but I wasn’t expecting you to bring someone back.”“Just a little unexpected addition to the team,” I said, keeping my tone light.He raised an eyebrow.“You’ve never brought anyone back before. What’s different now?”“I have my reasons,” I replied, feeling defensive. “She’s more than just a pawn; there’s potential there.”Li studied me, his gaze piercing.“And what about the risks? You know how this game works. We can’t afford any loose ends.”“I’m aware of the risks,” I snapped, irritation creeping into my voice. “But she’s not a liability. Not yet

I forced a nod, though inside I felt anything but okay.“I’ll be fine,” I replied, trying to sound more confident than I felt.But my voice wavered slightly, betraying my unease.He stepped closer, his presence filling the space with an electric tension.“If you need anything, just call. I’ll have someone nearby to assist you.”“Right,” I said, crossing my arms as if to shield myself from the swirling emotions inside me. “Thanks.”His lips curled into a slight smile, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “You’re not a prisoner here, Amina. You have freedom, but it’s limited for your own safety. Remember that.”I bit my lip, trying to understand what he meant by “freedom.”I wasn’t sure I felt free at all.“I’ll try to keep that in mind,” I replied, my tone dripping with sarcasm.“I mean it,” he said, his voice turning serious. “This world isn’t safe, and you’re in the middle of it now. You need to stay aware.”As he turned to leave, a wave of disappointment washed over me.It was strang

I had to try on a few pieces of clothes, if only to distract myself from the whirlwind of emotions churning inside me.I picked a soft, lacy black top that seemed to glow under the light.It was beautiful, but it felt like it belonged to someone else.I wondered how many other women Arben had been with before me…How many other women he’d slept with, and why he found me so special that he decided to buy me.I was just an ordinary woman who’d lived a sheltered lifestyle.I didn’t like the idea of Arben having touched so many other women before me.Being in his line of work, he was bound to.I shuddered at the thought.What was this?Jealousy?Over a man I had known for just a day?I scowled, shutting off my thoughts.I slipped it on, the fabric hugging my body in a way that sent a thrill through me.The sight in the mirror was unfamiliar.The reflection staring back at me was someone I didn’t recognize—someone alluring and yet terrified.Taking a deep breath, I spun around in front of

“Here’s where the real power dynamics unfold,” I said, gesturing to the long table where many of my associates gathered for meetings. “You’ll see familiar faces here, and I want you to remember them.”As we took our seats, I noticed the way Amina’s eyes darted around the room, absorbing every detail.There were six people gathered at the table, each with their own reputation—some feared, others respected.“This is important, Amina. Pay attention,” I said as I introduced the players. “To my left is Marcus, the enforcer. He’s loyal but dangerous, and crossing him would be a mistake.”I watched as Amina’s eyes widened, taking in the information.“To my right is Elena, a businesswoman with connections that could make or break you. Always play nice with her.”“Right,” she said, her tone dry. “And what about you? What do I need to know about you?”I leaned back, a smirk playing on my lips. “You should know I’m not to be underestimated. I’m the one who holds the cards, and you’re part of my