The Billionaire's Forbidding Bite

ntensity in Lucian's gaze stirred something deep within her-a mixture of anger and

ing," she warned, her voice ste

ghtful. He nodded towards the guests, their chatter like dis

" She crossed her arms, defiance radiati

stration creeping into his voice. This isn't just about you an

m, expression serious. "Lucian," he said,

discreetly, listening closely. The tall man leaned in, lowering his voice. "There are whisper

I've built." He gestured toward Vera, who stood just within earshot

truly a bargaining chip in a dangerous g

But Vera is off-limits. You need to protect her. S

elt like a glimmer of hope, but she quickly pushed it away

g closer. "You can't keep me shelt

catch. "This isn't about sheltering you. It's about the danger

" she replied firmly. We don't

ent, the tension shifted. "All righ

d. "But you have t

eement with a nod, the unsp

f guests gathered around a newly arrived entertainer-an illusionist creating a

ucian at her side again, his presence both reassuring and

n the magic show. "Sometimes distracti

ession contemplative. "But magic

him, a smile playing at her lips. "Especially when i

terrupted by her uncle again. "Lucian," h

elf bracing for impact. Out of the shadows, Dominguez strode f

yes dancing with malice. "Still preten

e for a pleasant conversation

oming. You think this alliance means anything

, turning from casual merriment to sharp whisper

ded, stepping forward, his posture i

ge in his smile. "You can't protect her forever. T

on, fury swelling within her. "Y

minguez's face. "Interesting. I may undere

you or your threats," she shot back

ered away, his retreating figure l

t through her thoughts as t

m, defiance lighting her eyes. "I dese

e of admiration and frustration painting his features

t masked it quickly. "Good.

towards the ballroom, a determined glint

nite within her. They may be enemies and reluctant allies, but they

d that strength lies not just in p