Audrey stood in front of the mirror, her heart pounding in her chest as she stared at her reflection. She was now the Empress, but the thought of what was to come tonight made her stomach churn. She took a deep breath, trying to shake off the memories of her abusive family.
The door creaked open, and Dante entered the room. He was tall, with white hair and piercing blue eyes that seemed to see right through her. He took a moment to study her, his gaze softening as he noticed the whip marks on her back.
"Who did that to you?" Dante demanded, his voice lacking every bit of control.
Audrey tried to brush off his concern, insisting that it was nothing. But Dante refused to let it go. "It was my stepsister who whipped me, and my stepbrother who raped me."
Dante's face darkened, his fists clenching at the thought of someone hurting his wife. "I will make them pay for what they've done," he growled.
Audrey, sensing his anger, tried to calm him down. "You're such a war-obsessed savage," she teased, trying to lighten the mood.
Dante chuckled, his anger subsiding as he realized Audrey was trying to distract him. He pulled her close, whispering soothing words in her ear as he traced the outline of the handprint around her neck.
Audrey tensed, but Dante's touch was gentle, and she found herself relaxing in his arms. They spent the night talking, getting to know each other better.
Dante promised to protect Audrey, vowing to keep her safe from her abusive family. Audrey, touched by his words, fell asleep in his arms, feeling safe for the first time in a long time.
As they lay in bed, Dante's mind was racing. He would make Audrey's family pay for what they'd done. He would make them regret ever laying a hand on her.
Audrey, unaware of Dante's plans, slept peacefully, her dreams filled with hope for a better future.
As the night wore on, Dante's protective instincts towards Audrey grew stronger. He knew he would do anything to keep her safe.
Audrey, waking up in the middle of the night, found Dante watching over her. She smiled, feeling loved and cherished for the first time in her life.
Dante, seeing her smile, couldn't help but feel a deep love for her. He knew he would do anything to make her happy.
As the night came to an end, Dante and Audrey fell asleep in each other's arms, their bond growing stronger with each passing moment.
The next morning, Audrey woke up feeling refreshed and hopeful. She knew that with Dante by her side, she could face whatever came her way.
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