Chapter 8: whisper and temptation

Carolina approached Samuel with a slow, confident grace. She wasn't nervous. She had played this game before.

Samuel was smart, loyal, and careful. But men like him? They had a weakness.

And tonight, she would find it.

She placed a delicate hand on the balcony railing, letting the cool breeze tease a few strands of her hair. Just enough to look effortlessly beautiful.

"It's a bit suffocating in there, isn't it?" she said, exhaling softly.

Samuel turned, his sharp green eyes assessing her. He didn't trust easily.

"Not a fan of your own engagement party?" he asked, taking a sip of his whiskey.

Carolina smiled, tilting her head slightly. "Let's just say, I didn't exactly have a choice in the matter."

Samuel chuckled, low and knowing. "Few people do when it comes to Alexander."

Bingo.

She leaned in just a fraction, brushing her fingers lightly against her bare shoulder as if adjusting her dress.

"You've known him for a long time, haven't you?" Her voice was soft, inviting. Just enough to make him lower his guard.

Samuel smirked. "Long enough to know he's not someone you should cross."

Carolina let out a small laugh, twirling the stem of her wine glass between her fingers.

"And yet, you're still here. Why?"

Samuel hesitated, just for a second.

A second was all she needed.

He sighed, rolling his shoulders. "Because I know things no one else does."**

Her heart pounded, but her smile didn't waver.

"Like what?"

Samuel gave her a long, unreadable look. Then he leaned in—closer than necessary.

"Careful, Carolina. You might not like the answers you're looking for."

She held his gaze, unfazed.

"Maybe I will."