Truths and Temptations

The opulent lobby of the Milan hotel buzzed with the quiet energy of late-night arrivals and departures. Graham stood near a gleaming marble pillar, his heart racing as he watched Jean saunter towards him. Her eyes, a hypnotic green in the soft lighting, were fixed on him with an intensity that made him want to bolt for the nearest exit.

"Graham, darling," Jean purred, her voice carrying a hint of a growl that sent shivers down his spine. "Did you really think you could escape me so easily?"

Graham swallowed hard, forcing a smile onto his face. "Jean! What a... surprise. I didn't expect to see you here in Milan."

Jean's laugh was low and dangerous. "Oh, come now. A billionaire fashion mogul like yourself must be used to being pursued by beautiful women."

The weight of his lies pressed down on Graham. He could feel the protection spell Bruce had hastily taught him tingling just beneath his skin, a constant reminder of the supernatural world he'd been thrust into.