The lighter clicked open.
Its gilded surface reflected dim light.
Flames leaped up, illuminating their eyes.
Ethan Sullivan moved with natural ease.
He didn't even wait for Sophia Sullivan's request.
The fire danced gently between them.
Sophia's lips curved. "Beautiful."
She picked up the still-damp death waiver.
The paper trembled slightly between her fingers.
Twin flames flickered in Ethan's pupils.
"Indeed it is."
His voice was deep.
He might have meant the fire. Or the woman.
Sophia released the document.
It floated downward toward the blaze.
The hungry flames devoured the page.
Ink twisted under the heat.
She drew out a slender cigarette.
Pressed its tip against the fire.
The ember glowed crimson.
Smoke curled around her parted lips.
Ethan had never seen Sophia like this.
A rose laced with poison.
Dangerous. Alluring.
The recent gamble replayed in his mind.
She'd walked along the cliff's edge.
Every step heart-stopping.
"I don't want payment."
Ethan suddenly grasped her wrist.
His warmth seeped through her skin.
"I want the right to stand beside you."
He bent toward her hand.
His lips closed around the cigarette she'd just smoked.
The filter still bore her faint lipstick mark.
Their gazes locked.
Ashes fluttered like butterflies.
This moment burned hotter than any kiss.
Sophia laughed softly.
She tossed the burning contract into the air.
The flaming arc landed perfectly—
Right beside Amy's hand.
Amy yelped and jerked back.
"Crimson Serpent!" She ground her teeth.
The paper disintegrated in the air.
Ash rained down silently.
Sweat beaded on Amy's forehead.
Strands of hair stuck to her skin.
Whispers spread through the crowd.
"Amy really cheated?"
"The chairman sent people to check the cards!"
"How did Crimson Serpent know?"
...
"Those who cross me don't fare well."
Amy forced a vicious smile.
A final attempt at dignity.
"I'll return all the wagers."
"But if you insist on slandering me—"
She signaled her bodyguards.
Edged toward the exit.
"My hand needs medical attention."
Two burly men blocked her path.
"The chairman's orders. No one leaves."
Amy scanned the room.
The casino doors were already sealed.
"What are you waiting for?"
She barked at her guards.
Black-suited men drew their guns.
Julian Valentine chuckled.
"You shouldn't have come here."
Amy's stomach dropped.
Every weapon swung toward—
Her own chest.