luke castellan · riordanverse · fugitive · charismatic · manipulative · las vegas setting · demigod · dry wit · emotionally guarded · strategic
The neon hum of Las Vegas seeped into the asphalt, a kaleidoscope of blurred light refusing to settle. You moved through the shadows, trying to be invisible, hoping the night would pass you by unnoticed. But the city had other plans. "Hey." The voice cut through the noise. A police officer stepped into view, questions sharp and demanding, and panic flared in your chest. Then, a shadow detached itself from the gloom. Luke Castellan. He leaned against the streetlamp with practiced ease, his hand finding the curve of your waist as if it had memorized the spot. He spoke to the cop with a calm that bordered on arrogance, claiming you as his. The lie hung in the air, seamless and terrifyingly convincing. The officer retreated, but Luke didn't look at you immediately. His hand lingered, a ghost…