<div style="text-align: justify;">Melinda knew the risk she was exposing herself to. It was very clear not only in the way Thomas looked at her, but his reputation also made her sure that he was a dangerous person. And now that he had set his eye on her, Melinda was sure she was in for some very unpleasant moments. With a sigh, she stared at Thomas. It was an impulse stronger than her will that pushed her to face him and not bend to his will. She knew full well of the threats this attitude brought about her, but there was no way she could simply turn off her sense of dignity.<br/><br/>Thomas' words about a compromise made Melinda focus on his face, missing the movement of his right hand until it was too late. The girl gasped and let out an agonizing moan. It was the worst pain she had experienced in her life, and for a moment Melinda felt she would faint. It would have been a merciful relief. Yet, she didn't, despite the terrible pain and the increasing difficulty to breathe.<br/><br/>The hand on the neckline of her dress gave Melinda a clear idea of what was about to happen before it even did. The sound of the fabric being ripped and the cold gust of wind on her bare skin awoke the girl a little more. "Please, don't...", Melinda muttered, her cheeks burning in shame. She had never been exposed like that, and even through the pain, the girl could still feel the humiliation of being semi-nude in public.</div>