Chapter 4

I collapsed onto my thin mattress, every muscle screaming in protest after another day of endless labor. My performance at the Moon Club had become a nightly ritual of humiliation—Ethan's favorite form of torture. Tonight had been particularly brutal; Victoria had suggested I dance with a chain attached to my collar, the symbolic meaning lost on no one in attendance.

A knock at my door made me flinch. I'd learned to fear unexpected visitors—they usually brought new punishments.

"Food," came a gruff voice.

I recognized Beta Caleb's voice but couldn't understand why he'd deliver my meal personally. Betas didn't serve;…