The scent of myrrh and amber hung in the air like a promise. The incense smoke unfurled in lazy spirals, filling the space with a warm haze. The room's penumbra was soft on the eyes, as if light were not permitted to injure there. Persian rugs cushioned every step, and the low bed, covered in black velvet and red cushions, seemed more an altar than a piece of furniture.

Lauren entered with a warm body, a tamed mind, and an exposed heart. There was a disquieting peace in her movements—as if ...