Valerius's expression hardened, his elegant restraint folding into sharp, predatory focus.

"I need to check it out," he murmured, voice like stone.

Then his eyes shifted back to Chloe, the crimson in them flickering. "But I can't leave you here. If this is a trap, you're the bait. Dress. Now."

The command was low but final. Chloe's pulse hammered as she stumbled from the bed, gathering her gown in trembling hands. Her body still ached with the heat of their near-consummated passion, yet now ...