Chapter 268

Alston's gaze darkened instantly as he rose abruptly from his chair, reaching out to grasp Cecilia's chin. "Cecilia, don't think I won't lay a hand on you!" Her breath was suddenly cut off; Cecilia hadn't eaten breakfast that morning, and now she struggled for air, her eyelids heavy as she coughed heavily. Her face quickly turned a deep shade of purple. Alston released his grip suddenly, causing Cecilia to fall onto the conference table, the impact jarring her injured arm, eliciting a sharp intake of breath. Her throat burned, her chest felt tight with lack of oxygen, and darkness crowded her vision. Cecilia forced herself to stay conscious, her head throbbing painfully. In the conference room, only Alston and Cecilia remained. She leaned against the table, unmoving, as Alston sneered. Was Cecilia still trying to play the victim? Trying to force him into submission? Hadn't she considered her own worth? He reached out, pulling Cecilia's shoulder to bring her closer, her body limp as she