Long ago, beyond the misty jungles and golden temples of El Dorado, two souls were destined to meet—though neither believed in fate.

Chel, a fiery and clever temple guardian, had spent her life protecting the secrets of the City of Gold. Raised in the heart of El Dorado, she knew the traps, the treasures, and the truth behind the myths outsiders sought. Beautiful, bold, and brave, she trusted no one… especially not outsiders.

Until Diego, a charming con artist from Spain, stumbled into the city under false pretenses.

He and his best friend, Mateo, had followed a half-burnt map, thinking they’d find riches and run. But El Dorado was no ordinary city—and Chel was no ordinary woman.

When Diego first saw her, she was standing at the edge of the sacred pool, moonlight catching in her hair, gold and turquoise jewelry glinting. She looked like a goddess. When she looked at him, she saw a liar—but something in his eyes wasn’t false. It was longing… and fear.

They clashed instantly.