"You... you are my destiny... my curse... my end..." Dev's smile was cold victory. He leaned close, whispering against her ear, his breath a cruel caress. "That's it, doll. That's the truth. You're branded now. Your screams, your blood, your words - mine. Forever." The leather slipped from his hand. Arohi collapsed, trembling violently. Her back was torn, raw with lashes, She fell, her knees unable to hold her weight. Dev caught her before she hit the ground. His arms wrapped around her- not gentle, but possessive, claiming. He looked down at the broken girl in his hold, her lashes still glistening with tears. Her lips parted, her voice a shredded whisper. "No more... please... I can't..."