Chapter 21. New Information

Despite The Shadow’s growing attachment to both Riccardo and me, we knew that our relationship with him was a dangerous one. His power and influence in the underworld had made him feared and respected, but also despised.

But it wasn’t only his enemies who posed a threat to our newfound peace. As I spent more time at The Shadow’s estate, I found myself drawn to him in ways that were inappropriate and deeply unsettling.

One evening, after dinner had ended and everyone had left for the night, The Shadow invited me to his private suite. He had been drinking heavily and was acting unpredictable.

At first, I tried to keep my distance, sensing a danger that I couldn’t put my finger on. But eventually, as he continued to seduce me with words and actions alike, I gave in to his advances.

It was reckless and wrong, but something in me was unable to resist the rush of passion that overtook us. We tumbled into bed together, consumed by lust and desire.

The sex was