I’ve been watching her since we were kids. Back then, it wasn’t about control—it was simpler. She was fire, even then—sharp, untouchable, too bright for anyone but me. I decided no one else would dare try.

Years passed, and nothing changed. She grew into her beauty, her strength, and that maddening defiance that pissed me off as much as it pulled me in. I stayed close, always watching, always protecting her, even when she didn’t realize it. And now, across the room, laughing with that idiot like he mattered, she still didn’t get it. But she would. She’d figure out there was no escaping me.

I crossed the room, slow and deliberate, my presence cutting through the crowd. Her eyes caught mine, and I saw her breath hitch. Good. She knew better than to play these games.

I stopped in front of her, not even sparing the man beside her a glance. “Step aside,” I said, my voice low and cold.

He hesitated, glancing between us, but one sharp look was all it took to make him slink off. Smart.

I turned to her, meeting her glare head-on. Arms crossed, full of fire—cute, like she thought she could stand a chance. She didn’t. Not against me.