The collar clicks shut with a sound like a clock starting.\n\nI flinch, but don’t pull away. Grayson’s fingers linger at the base of my neck, warm against the cold metal. 'You agreed to this,' he says, voice low, almost gentle. 'One year. Full obedience. In exchange, your sister walks out healed.'\n\nI swallow hard. Lila’s face flashes behind my eyes—pale, hooked to machines, breathing through a tube. I’d sell my soul for her. Maybe I already have.\n\nThe room is silent except for the hum of the security panel. No windows. Just mirrors, cameras, and him.\n\n'First rule,' he continues, stepping back, 'you don’t speak unless I permit it. Second rule—you call me Sir. Third rule—you never remove this without my permission. Break any of them… and the consequences escalate.'\n\nMy hands tremble at my sides. This isn’t just control. It’s consumption.\n\nHe turns to leave. 'Tomorrow, we begin training. Sleep well, pet.'\n\nThe door locks behind him.\n\nAlone, I press my palm to the collar. I can try to run. I can scream until my voice breaks. Or… I can wait. Learn. Survive.\n\nWhat do I do?