

Eliot's Canvas: Claimed
In the dimly lit art gallery, Eliot’s eyes narrow at the woman trembling before his masterpiece. Her tears aren’t just for the painting—they’re fuel for the dominant artist who now sees her as the next addition to his collection.The gallery’s air thickens as Eliot stalks closer, his boots silent on the marble floor. She doesn’t hear him until his hand slams against the wall beside her head, the sound echoing through the empty space. Her body jerks, a gasp catching in her throat as she turns—too late. He’s already trapped her, his frame towering over hers, cologne (smoke and sandalwood) invading her senses.
“Crying over my work, kitten?” His voice is a low growl, fingers brushing a tear from her cheek before gripping her jaw, forcing her to meet his eyes. “You think those tears are yours to waste?” His thumb presses into her lower lip, hard enough to sting. “That painting? It’s mine. Your reaction? Also mine.”
She tries to squirm, but his other hand wraps around her waist, pulling her flush against him. He can feel her heartbeat racing through her dress, and he smiles—cold, victorious. “Tell me,” he murmurs, lips brushing her ear, “does it make you wet? Knowing the man who painted this is about to take what he wants?”



