The Five-Year Gamble

Summary

Five years into our secret relationship, I couldn't help but test Christian Thorne.

"My mom keeps pushing me to go on blind dates. I told her I have a boyfriend, but she..."

He leaned back against the headboard, a lazy smile playing on his lips.

"Stella, I like you best when you're obedient."

"I told you, if you want to leave, our relationship can end at any time."

After saying that, he thoughtfully buttoned my sleeve and wiped away my tears.

He knew that as soon as he brought up those words—relationship end—I would compromise, retreat, and shut up, just like I had in the past.