Rain slicked across the city like black silk, neon lights shivering on the pavement. Ava Laurent pulled her coat tighter as she hurried down the alley that didn’t exist on any map — the alley her brother had whispered about with fear in his voice.

A steel door loomed ahead. No sign. No handle. Just a small brass slot at eye level. She knocked once, her heart hammering.

The slot slid open. A pair of eyes—dark, male, predatory—scanned her like a weapon. “You’re late.”

“I’m looking for Mr. Vale. He said—”

The door clicked open before she could finish. Inside was another world: marble floors, soft music thrumming like a heartbeat, and men and women in masks moving like predators at a masquerade. Ava’s breath caught. It smelled of leather, roses, and something darker—something warm and alive.

She shouldn’t be here. She knew it in her bones. But her brother’s debt was due, and this was her last chance to save him.

Then she saw him.

Leaning against the black marble staircase like he owned the entire planet. Tall. Black suit cut like sin. Eyes the color of molten silver. Every head bowed as he passed.

Zion Drax.

He looked at her, and the air left the room.

The corner of his mouth curled, amusement or hunger, she couldn’t tell. “I’ve been waiting for you.”