The Devil's Bet

**AURORA**

"This isn't Obsidian," I said as Kian led me to the nondescript building.

The structure in front of us looked nothing like the sleek, modern club I'd visited before. This building was old, with crumbling brick walls and windows covered with metal sheets. A far cry from the upscale venue where I'd first encountered Kian's world.

"You're right," he replied, his grip on my hand firm as we approached a rusty metal door. "This is something else entirely."

A massive man with a shaved head stood guard outside. His arms were thick as tree trunks, covered in tattoos that disappeared beneath his tight black t-shirt. He nodded at Kian with obvious respect.

"Storm," the guard said. "Been a while."

Storm? I glanced at Kian, but his face revealed nothing.

"Duke," Kian responded. "Is it busy tonight?"

"Full house. Word got out you might show."

Kian cursed under his breath. "Let's go through the back."