When Hawk returned after dropping Genevieve off at the Vale estate, he was met with the sight of Ronald lying in a bloody heap on the restroom floor, unconscious. Elias's face was terrifyingly dark.
"Take off your jacket," Elias ordered, turning to the woman slumped against the wall.
Following Elias's gaze, Hawk saw Victoria huddled in a corner. Her eyes were empty and her body was completely still.
He immediately understood and began to take off his jacket.
Elias took it, walked over to Victoria, and draped it over her shoulders. He bent down to pick her up.
But Victoria pushed herself to her feet, avoiding his touch. Her voice was hoarse. "Don't touch me. I can get home by myself."
Elias's hands were left empty. His dark eyes narrowed.
Victoria didn't look at him. Though she could barely walk straight, she stubbornly held herself upright and started for the door. After just a few steps, she lost her balance and stumbled.
Elias closed the distance in a single stride, wrapped an arm around her waist, and lifted her into his arms.
"Hawk, clean this up."
He tossed the cold command over his shoulder and walked out.
"Elias, put me down. I can..."
"Shut up!" Elias snapped, his face grim.
...
The Imperial Crest Estates.
Elias carried her inside, his steps long and fast.
Anne was tidying up when she heard the noise at the entrance. She hurried over, her heart leaping into her throat when she saw Elias carrying Victoria. "Sir, what happened to Mrs. Shawn?"
"Go get some hangover pills and warm soup."
Elias ignored her question, issued the cold order, and headed for the master bedroom on the second floor.
The moment he placed her on the bed, Victoria turned on her side, away from him. The burning in her stomach and the spinning of the room were relentless.
Elias was about to leave when he caught a glimpse of red on her palm.
He paused, grabbing her wrist. But before he could get a clear look, Victoria yanked her hand back forcefully.
Elias's face darkened instantly. "Victoria, who are you putting on this act for? Don't forget, you were the one who agreed to this exchange! What's with this victim act now? Besides, Ronald didn't even do anything to you!"

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