A Playful Game

The next day, Nadia met Jaxon at their usual spot. As soon as their eyes locked, a smile crept across her face, wide and genuine. Jaxon's response was a flirtatious grin, his gaze lingering on her, sweeping over her figure in a way that was almost too obvious. His eyes held the faint hope of getting what he wanted, but he was completely unaware of the plan she had in store for him.

"What do you have in mind for today?" she asked, tilting her head slightly as she returned his flirtation. They sat at a quaint cafe near the coast, the sparkling blue sea just beyond the windows, its serene waves adding a sense of calm to the atmosphere. "We could go diving. The weather's perfect for it," she suggested, testing his reaction.

Jaxon didn't seem interested in her idea. He downed his beer and smirked. "I've got something else in mind," he said, "Planned it last night with a buddy."

She couldn't help but laugh lightly at that, knowing exactly who that buddy likely was, though she kept the thought to herself.

"Oh really?" she asked, feigning surprise, her curiosity piqued.

"Yes, you might not have heard of it," he teased, his voice full of mischief.

She laughed again, unable to resist. He didn't know who he was talking to. This city was hers to navigate; she knew its every corner, its people, its secrets.

"Well, do tell me. Where is it?" she asked, eyes narrowing just enough to appear intrigued.

"It's a private club," he explained. "My buddy's a member. He's throwing a party tonight. I want you to come with me."

She arched an eyebrow, pretending to be interested, though her mind was already working. She had enough dirt on him to understand exactly what he was after. Either he wanted more intel or, more likely, he hoped to get lucky. That wouldn't happen. Not with her. Not when he worked for the brother.

"Oh, that sounds fun," she said, keeping her voice light. "Where is this place?"

"The Diamond Hotel," he replied. "I'm staying there."

"Of course you are," she smiled, her voice dripping with innocence as she played into his ego. "But tell me, what's the party all about? Will you be introducing me to your friends?" she added, twirling her hair around her finger with a suggestive glance.

He paused for a moment, his gaze shifting as though weighing something in his mind. She could almost hear the wheels turning behind his eyes. He was considering whether to keep her all to himself, afraid of any competition. She could tell he was protective, or perhaps possessive. Not that it would matter.

But the wheels in her own head were spinning too. What if she played along, went to the party, and just so happened to bump into one of the brothers? She could stir up all kinds of trouble, making it look like fate was playing its hand. The thought nearly made her smile to herself.

Still, meeting the brothers directly wasn't without its risks. They were dangerous, untouchable in their own way, yet wild and reckless. She wouldn't let herself be caught up in their game, not unless she was in control. Even in a world of manipulations, she knew how far to push before things went too far.

"It's a small celebration for a deal we closed last night," Jaxon explained, finally. "My friends will be there."

She leaned forward slightly, her gaze steady. "That sounds wonderful. I can't wait to meet them," she said, her tone a mix of playfulness and suggestion. A flicker of something darker crossed Jaxon's eyes, possessiveness. But not the kind she found flattering. This was the kind of possessiveness that came from a boy clinging to a toy.

"I'll see about that," he muttered darkly, his nostrils flaring as though her words had struck a nerve.

"What's wrong, Jaxon?" she asked softly, reaching across the table and brushing her fingers along his arm. She watched as his breath caught, a sharp inhale. She knew the effect she had on him.

He put his beer down and seemed to lean in, about to take her hand, but she pulled back just in time, flashing him an innocent smile.

"I'll pick you up at six," he said, his voice hushed. "Dress your best."

"I can't wait to see your reaction when you see me in my little black dress," she teased, her voice low and suggestive. She could see the shift in his expression, the way his breath quickened. She chuckled to herself, feeling a rush of power.

"I'll be looking forward to it," he replied, his tone dark with anticipation.

She gathered her things, preparing to leave. "See you, Jaxon," she said, blowing him a playful kiss before walking out of the cafe.

The sun was still high in the sky, but she had a few hours before the evening. Something stirred inside her, excitement, anticipation. Her wolf, the part of her that could sense danger and opportunity, paced restlessly in her mind. She'd make sure she was ready for whatever came next. There were enemies to meet, secrets to uncover, and a game to be played. She would make sure to leave them with a first impression they'd never forget. The hunt was on.