Chapter 21: A Dangerous Game

Hazel couldn't stop thinking about Vanessa.

The way she'd sauntered into their home like she belonged there, dripping arrogance and danger. The unsettling way she'd called Michael darling. And worse — the way Michael hadn't looked entirely surprised to see her.

Hazel wasn't the jealous type.

Usually.

But Vanessa had awakened something primal in her, a fierce, possessive ache she didn't know she was capable of. She wasn't going to sit quietly while some sharp-dressed corporate siren tried to stir trouble in her marriage.

So, the next evening — at a charity gala Michael had to attend — Hazel decided to play a little dangerous herself.

She dressed to kill.

A midnight blue silk gown that hugged every curve like a second skin, a plunging neckline, a slit that revealed one perfect leg with every step. Hair swept up, diamond earrings catching the light. And a pair of four-inch stilettos that could probably be classified as weapons.

When Michael saw her step out of the bedroom, his eyes darkened instantly.

"Holy hell, Hazel."

She smiled sweetly. "Like it?"

He crossed the room in two long strides, pulling her close. "You look…" He trailed a hand down her waist. "...illegal."

"Good. Let's go."

The gala was packed with the city's most dangerous and influential, chandeliers glittering overhead, champagne flowing. Hazel stayed glued to Michael's side, aware of the lingering gazes following them. It wasn't just the dress. It was the way Michael couldn't seem to keep his hands off her.

Which was exactly what she wanted.

Vanessa arrived an hour in.

Hazel spotted her immediately, draped in a blood-red gown, eyes scanning the room like a predator searching for prey. And when those eyes landed on Hazel, Vanessa's smirk faltered.

Gotcha.

Michael stiffened at her approach, but Hazel placed a hand possessively on his chest.

"Well, well," Vanessa purred, stopping in front of them. "Didn't expect to see you two tonight."

Hazel's smile was pure sin. "Funny, I was hoping you'd show. I wanted to thank you."

Vanessa blinked. "For what?"

"For making me realize just how perfect my husband is. And how lucky I am to go home with him tonight. Every night."

Michael choked on his drink.

Vanessa's expression tightened. "Enjoy it while it lasts, sweetheart. Men like Michael are loyal — until they're not."

Hazel didn't flinch. She leaned in, her voice sweet as poison. "And women like me? We don't lose."

Then she brushed past her, tugging Michael with her, not missing the furious glare in Vanessa's eyes.

Michael was silent for a moment as they slipped out to the balcony. Then he grinned. "I'm never letting you out of my sight again."

Hazel laughed, the adrenaline heady. "Good. Because I'm just getting started."

But as she looked out over the glittering city lights, something dark settled in her chest.

Vanessa wasn't done.

And Hazel Graze didn't intend to lose the next round...