er fingers gripping the hem of her worn-out sweater. Every instinct screamed at her to run, to fig

the tinted windows, her mind r

owering iron gates. This wasn't just a house-it was a fortress. Armed guards stoo

ard. There was no

rance. Matteo stepped out first, then motioned for her to fo

black marble floors, gold-trimmed chandeliers, and an eerie, suf

l they reached a set of large double doo

here

Caste

Even from behind, his presence was overwhelming-broad shoulders, a perf

rrying an undeniable edge. He turned to face her,

s gor

was nothing soft about him. His expression was unreadable,

ing herself to stay composed.

er with slow, measured steps. "He owed me m

ng to let him see her fear.

took another sip of whiskey before setting the gl

omach drop

other's debt is now yours. And un

. This couldn't be real. "I-

work for me. You'll do as I say, when I say it." His

e. If she refused, she woul

she whispered, "What

smirk d

art with