Chapter 1 - The First ThreadEvelyn didn’t flinch under his gaze. The low hum of the ballroom seemed to fade, leaving only the sharp, dangerous perimeter of Adrian Mercer’s attention.
“Evelyn Hart,” she said, her voice steady despite the adrenaline spiking in her veins. She tilted her chin up. “And you are blocking my view of the city skyline, Mr. Mercer.”
Adrian didn’t look away. His gray eyes swept over her, taking in the emerald wrap dress, the lack of hesitation, the absolute defiance in her posture. Most people trembled or fawned. This woman treated him like a minor architectural obstruction.
“Evelyn,” he murmured, testing the name on his tongue as if it were a rare poison. “You have a remarkable talent for making enemies in high places, Ms. Hart.”
“I have a talent for avoiding people who think wealth excuses bad manners,” she countered, picking up her sparkling water and taking a slow sip. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, my friend is having a mild panic attack by the bar, and I need to check her pulse.”
She made to stand, but Adrian’s hand—large, warm, and deceptively casual—wrapped around her wrist. The grip wasn't tight enough to bruise, but it was inescapable.
“We aren't finished,” he said softly.
“I am.”
Across the room, Noah Briggs shifted his stance, his hand hovering near his jacket pocket. The entire hierarchy of the Meridian Club held its breath, waiting for the king to crush the insolent appraiser.
Instead, Adrian’s lips twitched into a slow, dangerous smile. He released her wrist, leaning back in his chair.
May you like
“Enjoy your evening, Ms. Hart. But don’t get too comfortable. New York is smaller than you think.”
Evelyn didn’t look back as she walked away. But as she grabbed Jenna by the arm and dragged her toward the elevators, a cold drop of dread settled in her stomach. She had just poked a sleeping dragon. And dragons didn't forgive.
