In the rain-soaked alley, Rae’s hand hovered over her blade, eyes locked on Elias—the man she was meant to kill. His smirk sent a heat through her despite the cold, and the space between them crackled with tension.

“You always find me,” Elias drawled, stepping closer. His voice was mocking, but his gaze cut deep, unsettling her in ways she refused to admit.

“Maybe this time I’ll finish the job,” Rae hissed, her pulse betraying her steady hand.

Elias chuckled, his eyes gleaming. “Or maybe you just don’t want to.”