The Game Begins

Elena sat on the edge of the bed, her wrists still bound in silk. Luca hadn't spoken since he brought her here. He simply stood by the window, watching her with unreadable eyes, like a predator studying its prey.

The silence stretched between them, heavy and suffocating.

Finally, she exhaled sharply. "If you're expecting me to beg, you'll be waiting a long time."

Luca's lips curved into a smirk. "I wouldn't dream of it."

He walked toward her, slow and deliberate. When he reached her, he crouched, placing his hands on either side of her thighs, effectively caging her in.

Elena refused to flinch.

His fingers trailed over the silk binding her wrists before pulling the knot loose. The fabric fell away, and her skin tingled where it had been tied.

"You're free," he murmured.

Elena's breath caught. "What's the catch?"

Luca tilted his head, amusement dancing in his dark eyes. "No catch, bambina. You want to leave? The door is right there."

Her eyes darted to the massive wooden door. She didn't trust this. She knew Luca. He never gave without expecting something in return.

Slowly, she stood. Luca remained crouched, watching her every move.

She took a step toward the door.

Then another.

Her fingers brushed the cool metal handle—

And a hand wrapped around her wrist, yanking her back.

She gasped as she collided with Luca's chest, his arms locking around her. "So close," he murmured against her ear, his breath warm and taunting. "But you didn't really think I'd make it that easy, did you?"

Anger flared in her chest, replacing the fear threatening to consume her. "You're playing a game."

Luca's grip tightened slightly. "We are playing a game. And I always win."

Elena twisted in his hold, forcing herself to meet his gaze. "Then you should know something about me, Luca."

His eyes flickered with curiosity. "Oh?"

She leaned in just enough that their lips nearly brushed, her voice a whisper.

"I don't lose."

Before he could react, she slammed her knee up—straight into his ribs.

Luca grunted, his grip loosening just enough for her to break free. She spun, reaching for the door, but before she could open it, strong arms wrapped around her from behind, pulling her back against him.

His voice was low, dark, and filled with dangerous amusement.

"Now this is fun."

Elena's pulse pounded as she realized—

She wasn't the only one enjoying the game.

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Next Chapter: A Dangerous Dance—Elena won't surrender. Luca won't let go. But when an unexpected visitor arrives, the stakes of their game change forever.