The dinner that changed everything
Although Emilia had encountered many challenges in Adrian Cross's world, such as locked doors, hushed threats, and the oppressive burden of a contract she had never requested, nothing frightened her more than the moment she entered the dining hall that night. Tonight was different. Warm amber light filled the hall, which was always spotless and chilly. Along the length of the table, candles flickered, their flames mirrored in the crystal and polished silver. She couldn't quite identify the earthy, delicate, and seductive smell permeating the air. This was no typical dinner. This was planned. ready. computed. Just beneath her skin, her pulse was beating. "Emilia."
His soft, low voice glided down her spine like ice and silk as it came from behi
