Chapter 30: Walking Into the Lion’s Den

I didn't sleep that night.

Not because I was scared—though I probably should have been.

Not because I was replaying every second of that encounter with Liam Kingston—though that was definitely happening.

I didn't sleep because my brain was working overtime, trying to figure out what the hell he really wanted.

The fact that I was still breathing meant something. A man like Liam didn't let thieves walk away unless he had a reason. And now, I was walking straight into his territory, by choice.

Again.

Kai was losing his mind.

"This is insane, Cel. You're just going to meet him?"

"He gave me a choice, didn't he?" I said, sliding into my heels.

"Oh yeah, a real generous one. Show up or die."

"Exactly. And I like being alive."

I could hear Kai pacing through the comms. He was probably running a hand through his hair, frustrated. "You don't even know what he wants."

"That's why I'm going. To find out."

I checked my reflection in the mirror. Sleek black dress, low but not too low, elegant but not desperate. If Liam thought I was showing up rattled, he had another thing coming.

"You're playing with fire."

"Good thing I don't burn easily."

I grabbed my clutch and headed out.

The location Liam gave me was a rooftop restaurant—one of those high-end, exclusive places where the cheapest drink probably cost more than my rent.

I knew better than to think this was a date.

No, this was a power move.

He wanted me on his turf. In his space. Where he controlled every variable.

Fine. Let's play.

I stepped out of the elevator and immediately felt eyes on me. The hostess didn't even ask my name—she just gave me a knowing smile and gestured toward the back.

Liam was already there, seated at a private table overlooking the city. Waiting.

He looked… infuriatingly good. Dark suit, sleeves rolled up just enough to show strong forearms. Glass of whiskey in his hand. Completely at ease.

I hated that.

I slid into the chair opposite him, crossing my legs. "So, is this the part where you poison my drink?"

His lips quirked. "If I wanted you dead, Celeste, you wouldn't have made it through the door."

Comforting.

A waiter appeared, and before I could order, Liam spoke smoothly, "She'll have the Syrah. 2016. A good year."

I arched a brow. "And if I wanted something else?"

He leaned forward slightly, eyes glinting. "You don't."

The worst part? He was right. That was exactly what I would have picked.

Damn it.

"Alright," I said, leaning back. "You clearly didn't invite me here for small talk. So what do you want, Liam?"

He took a slow sip of his drink before answering.

"I want to hire you."

I blinked. That was not the answer I expected.

"Excuse me?"

"You're skilled. You took risks breaking into my vault. I admire that." His lips curved. "And you managed to keep your cool when you got caught. Not many can do that."

"So what, you want me on your payroll?" I let out a dry laugh. "Hate to break it to you, but I don't do the whole 'work for the criminal empire' thing."

Liam's gaze darkened slightly.

"Who said anything about my empire? I'm offering you a deal, Celeste. One you'd be stupid to refuse."

My stomach twisted.

This wasn't just about hiring me. This was about owning me.

And I wasn't sure if I was walking into an opportunity… or a trap.