“Within the last hour. And there’s more. His private security detail has been conducting movement drills in the east quadrant of the property. Unusual formations, advanced tactical positioning. My source says they’re practicing extraction protocols.”
“Send me everything you have on the new additions.”
“Already done.” Grayson pauses. “Hunter... these aren’t standard security measures for a social event.”
I end the call and immediately pull up the encrypted files on my phone. Fifteen names, no digital footprint, no connection to our existing networks. This isn’t a coincidence.
For the first time since setting this plan in motion, doubt creeps in. The image of Aurora walking into this viper’s nest—quite literally—makes something cold settle in my chest. She doesn’t understand what she’s stepping into. What I’ve pulled her into.
I think of her standing at the cliff edge in the rain, vulnerable yet defiant. The way she looked at me in her kitchen, knife in hand, terrified but refusing to back down. Every instinct I have screams to protect what’s mine, to keep her close where I can shield her.
But bringing her here, into this world of violence and ruthless power plays—am I protecting her or endangering her?
For a moment, I consider canceling her invitation, creating distance between us until I’ve neutralized Jax. The safest option would be to push her away entirely.
The thought makes something primal and possessive rise within me. No. She’s mine. I just need to ensure her safety without compromising my position.
I dial Penn. “Change of plans.”
27
AURORA
“What about this one?” Daisy holds up a midnight blue gown with silver beading across the bodice.
I blink, realizing I’ve been staring at the same rack of dresses for five minutes without seeing any of them. “It’s nice.”
“You’ve said that about the last three dresses I’ve shown you.” Daisy narrows her eyes. “What’s going on with you today? You’ve been a million miles away.”
“Just tired.” I turn to another rack, running my fingers over the fabrics without really seeing them.
“Aurora.” Daisy’s voice softens as she moves to stand beside me. “Talk to me. This isn’t just about finding a dress for some masquerade, is it?”
My phone buzzes in my purse. I know without looking it’s Hunter. Again. My stomach flips with equal parts excitement and dread.
“I’m fine.” I pull out a black dress with a plunging neckline. “Maybe this one?”
Daisy takes the dress from my hands and hangs it back up. “Is it Hunter?”
The question hits like a slap. I freeze, unable to meet her eyes.
“I’ve seen how you look when your phone buzzes. I’m not stupid, Aurora.”
“It’s complicated,” I whisper, finally looking up at her.
“He’s engaged to your sister. That’s not complicated—that’s wrong.” Her voice remains gentle despite her words.
I move toward a fitting room, grabbing a deep red gown on my way. “There are things you don’t understand.”
Daisy follows, leaning against the fitting room door as I change. “Then help me understand. Because from where I’m standing, you’re playing with fire.”
The zipper sticks halfway up my back. “He doesn’t love her,” I say quietly. “It’s a business arrangement. Olivia told me herself.”
“And that makes it okay?” Daisy’s reflection appears behind mine in the mirror as she helps with the zipper. Her eyes find mine. “Even if it’s just business, what happens when Olivia finds out? What happens to your family?”
I turn to face the mirror, the red dress clinging to my curves like it was made for me. Hunter would love it. The thought brings both pleasure and shame.
“You’re falling for him, aren’t you?” Daisy’s voice is barely audible.
