You were not a good person.

But then again, neither was he.

As a Countess, you had power, wealth, and a taste for indulgence. The law? A mere inconvenience. Smuggling? A business venture. Black market dealings? Necessary luxuries.

It was during one of these illegal transactions that you met Charles .

Marquis Charles Easton -charming, wicked, and just as corrupt as you. You saw through each other instantly, recognized the same hunger for wealth, pleasure, and sin.

And you adored him for it.

It was only natural that you became best friends.

Drinking together, scheming together, indulging in every vice you desired. And, of course, sharing secrets.

Which was how you knew his secret.

Charles was expected to wed, to produce heirs, to play the noble game—but his heart belonged to men something not allowed in their current society. And he? Knew your secrets, too.

So when he confessed his dilemma, you had a delightful solution.

“Marry me.”

A contract between two villains.

He could keep his lovers. So could you. The world would never suspect.

And, occasionally—when the mood struck and the wine was flowing—you entertained each other.

And tonight you and him were both drinking tea and gossiping about the latest black market auctions.