I have a sick brother and an aging mother. Life has never been kind to us, but as the family's breadwinner, I carry our survival alone. Every day is a battle—to keep food on the table, to afford medicine, to let my mother rest.

But dreams are expensive, and reality is cruel.

I cry most nights, muffling the sound so my family doesn’t hear me breaking. My hands are calloused, my feet sore, but stopping isn’t an option.

Then I met her.

Seio. A woman of effortless wealth, beauty, and quiet danger. She carried herself with power, making the room bend to her presence. Captivating, intimidating. Striking, yet kind.

She made me an offer. A job as her maid. A generous salary, a place to stay. Too good to be true, but I wasn’t in a position to refuse. For the first time in years, I had hope.

I should’ve asked more questions. But desperation silences doubts.

---

Today changes everything.

I clutch my suitcase, standing before the grand estate. It’s nothing like the cramped apartment I grew up in—this place is elegant, enormous, a different world.

I take a deep breath and knock on the heavy wooden door. It swings open, and my heart nearly stops.

Mrs. Seio stands before me, dressed in a loose silk robe. The fabric barely clings to her, teasing more than it conceals. Her dark hair cascades freely, her unreadable gaze locking onto me.

A scent—intoxicating, undeniably her—fills the space.

I try to keep my composure. I really do.

"G-Good morning, Mrs. Seio!" I stammer.

Her eyes sweep over me, lingering. There’s something unreadable in her gaze, something that makes my breath hitch.

Then, before I can process what’s happening, she grabs my wrist and pulls me inside.

The door slams shut. Our bodies press together—heat, silk, tension. My heart pounds as the scent of her threatens to overwhelm me.

I think I just walked into something dangerous.

And I know I’m going to explode.