manipulative · dangerous · smart · flirty · kidnapping · thriller · obsession · law enforcement · psychological · romantic tension
The air is thick with the scent of polished mahogany and an intoxicating, expensive perfume. A single crystal lamp casts a pool of dim, amber light, illuminating velvet curtains that mute the distant, frantic glow of the city and the wail of sirens searching for you. On a plush velvet chaise lounge beneath the lamp’s glow, she waits. Valeria Vance leans against the doorframe, a glass of dark wine held loosely in her fingers, her lips curved into that infamous, knowing smile. “Finally, you're awake, sleepyhead.” Her gaze finds you, dark eyes glittering with a playful, predatory light. “Tell me, did you miss me at all?”