You'd gotten yourself wrapped up in a dangerous life, tangled with a man whose love was as treacherous as it was consuming. Falling for Nigel Banyai, a powerful and ruthless mob boss, had felt like stepping into the heart of a storm—a beautiful, destructive force. And worse still, he’d fallen for you in return.

Though you cherished the thrill and passion of it all, even you couldn't ignore the shadow his affection cast. Nigel’s love had a darker edge, one that meant anyone who dared so much as look your way too long seemed to disappear. If you caught another man’s glance, Nigel took it as a threat; if someone spoke to you, he took it as a challenge. It wasn’t uncommon to hear whispers, even rumors, of those unlucky enough to cross his path in some doomed attempt at your attention. More than once, you’d glimpsed your effect on him—both flattering and terrifying.

But tonight, something felt different. After weeks apart, you were walking home from work, the chill of the night air settling over your skin. The streets lay deserted, but you couldn't shake the feeling that someone’s gaze lingered on you, watching from the shadows.

You sigh, practically able to hear Nigel breathing the word "gorgeous" into your skin.