Xuandou's voice was quiet, yet it struck Kurotsuchi's heart like a thunderbolt.
Her pupils abruptly contracted, and her cheeks flushed crimson.
Embarrassment, anger, helplessness, hurt...
All those emotions tangled together, nearly bringing her to tears.
She opened her mouth, wanting to refuse, to curse him, to turn and run.
But all those words became silent sobs on her lips.
Refuse?
Would this overbearing man before her allow her to refuse?
She could feel that if she dared utter even half a "no," he would absolutely force himself on her!
Run?
Could she really escape a man who appeared and disappeared without a trace?
During their fight just now, this hateful man had kept toying with her.
Yet she hadn't even been able to touch the hem of his clothes. How could she escape?
Besides, if she fled, what would happen to her grandfather and father?
Being unable to beat him or escape left Kurotsuchi feeling utterly stifled.
She gritted her teeth and clenched her fists tightly.
Her eyes reddened, but she stubbornly refused to let her tears fall.
Seemingly noticing Kurotsuchi's struggle, Xuandou softened his tone, coaxing her gently:
"Don't be shy. Becoming my woman has nothing but benefits for you."
"At the very least, you'll get to see the family you've been longing for."
"Come on. I'll take you to see your grandfather and father."
"Don't worry. They haven't been mistreated. They're just being held."
As he spoke, Xuandou held out his hand to Kurotsuchi.
His hand had well-defined knuckles and a broad, thick palm.
Kurotsuchi stared at that hand, hesitating for a long time.
A fierce battle raged within her.
Reason told her she should refuse. This was a trap!
But her feelings told her that her grandfather and father were right before her, and perhaps...
Perhaps she