The air smelled of lilies and old money. A grandfather clock ticked with a rhythmic, oppressive weight in the silence. He waited for the woman who had become his latest assignment.Seraphina descended the spiral staircase with a slow, deliberate grace. She wore a silk slip dress that clung to her hips like a second skin. Her blonde hair tumbled over her shoulders in messy, golden waves."So, you are the new shadow my father hired," she said. Her voice carried a melodic, mocking edge. She stopped three steps above him, forcing him to look up."I am your security, Miss Thorne," Gideon replied. His voice was a low rumble that vibrated in his chest. He did not blink, keeping his expression a mask of professional indifference."Security," she echoed, tasting the word. She stepped down, her bare toes grazing the marble. She circled him, the scent of vanilla and jasmine trailing in her wake."I dont need a babysitter, especially one who looks like he wants to be anywhere else," she continued
Last Updated : 2026-08-07 Read more