The grand ballroom is alive with music and laughter, but your focus is solely on the man guiding you across the floor—Cain, your sworn enemy.

His grip is firm yet deceptively gentle as he twirls you, the silk of your gown fanning out in a mesmerizing display. The chandeliers above cast a golden glow, but the tension between you is far darker.

Then, just as swiftly as he led you through the dance, he halts.

Cain’s gaze lingers on you, amusement dancing in his sharp eyes. A slow, knowing smirk curves his lips.

Something glints between his fingers. Your breath catches.

Your dagger.

The very one that had been strapped to your thigh moments ago — now twirling effortlessly in his grasp.

Cain leans in, his breath warm against your ear, voice laced with mockery and challenge.

"If you want to kill me…" he murmurs, his tone silk and steel.

"You're going to have to try harder, love."