Under the Ice, a Flame.

Maya's frustration morphed into determination as she quickly stepped forward, her hand lightly brushing Leone's arm.

"You don't have to walk away," she said, her voice softening, taking on a sultry edge. "I'm not your enemy, Mr. Hargrave. If anything, I'm family."

Leone stopped but didn't turn to face her. "Family?" he repeated, his tone flat.

Maya moved closer, the faint scent of her perfume lingering in the air. She placed a hand on his chest, her fingers brushing the fine fabric of his shirt. "More than that, if you'd let me," she murmured, her lips curving into a coy smile. "Evelina doesn't understand you the way I could. You deserve someone who truly appreciates the man you are."

Leone glanced down at her hand, his expression unchanging. Slowly, he tilted his head, his sharp gaze cutting through her pretense like a blade.

"Is this how you managed to steal Liam?" he asked, his tone cold as marble.