The Serpent of Paradise

“…You promised you would take me with you.”

Mikhail gazed with satisfaction at the woman clinging to him in tears.

This was how it should be. Anastasia was supposed to cling to him like this and beg.
It was the obedience she rightfully owed the man who possessed her.

“I have no obligation to keep that promise.”

Promises could only exist between equals.

Anastasia—whom he fed, taught, and held—had no right to demand promises from him.

Because Anastasia was his beautiful possession.

Mikhail turned his back on Anastasia and took another woman’s hand.

Without even imagining the consequences his actions would bring.