Dangerously Yours

Emma Carter had always believed that cities were full of possibilities. When she moved from her quiet hometown in Vermont to the bustling streets of Chicago, she was chasing a dream of independence, creativity, and maybe—if fate was feeling generous—love. What she didn’t expect was to stumble into a world where love came at the barrel of a gun. It was a chilly Friday morning when everything changed. Emma was working the opening shift at Bellissimo, a quaint Italian coffee shop tucked away on West Grand Avenue. Her apron was dusted with flour from the morning’s pastries, and her hands were wrapped around a warm mug of espresso when she heard the chime of the front door. She looked up, and time slowed. A tall man stepped in. Tailored black suit, dark hair slicked back, and a face carved from marble—strong jaw, high cheekbones, and stormy gray eyes that scanned the shop like he owned the place. He was accompanied by two other men who were equally well-dressed but carried the air of bodyguards. Emma blinked. "Good morning. What can I get you?" The man walked up to the counter. His gaze locked with hers, and her breath caught in her throat. "Americano. No sugar," he said, voice low and commanding. As she turned to prepare the drink, gunshots echoed outside. The windows shattered inward. Emma screamed and ducked behind the counter, heart thudding. The suited man moved instantly, pulling a gun from inside his jacket and returning fire without hesitation. When the shots ceased, silence fell over the café. Emma peeked from behind the counter. The man stood over a fallen attacker, his expression unreadable. He turned to her. "You okay?" She nodded shakily, unable to form words. "What’s your name?" "Emma. Emma Carter." "Emma, you didn’t see anything today. Understand?" He paused. "But for safety...you’re coming with me."