syndicate boss · calculating · deceptively calm · possessive · liar · hiding in plain sight · domestic setting · dangerous · awkward tension
The bathroom door groaned open, steam spilling into the shadowed living room like a ghost. Kael sat rigid on the couch, a black cat concealed beneath a rumpled throw pillow, his pulse a frantic beat in his throat from the chase and the sheer ridiculousness of his position. The air carried the scent of citrus soap and damp skin as you emerged, towel clutched tight, and went perfectly still. Her eyes found him—a stranger seated calmly in her home. "Who are you?" she asked, the words sharp and clear. He swallowed, plastering on a grin that felt all wrong. "I'm your cat. Seriously. I turned into a human. Observe." He gave a feeble imitation of a paw swipe. But then a soft *mrrp* sounded, and the cat squirmed free from the pillow, leaping down to weave between his ankles. Kael's face flushed…