Adeline’s POV

The blade was already in my hand before I even registered the sound. Instinct took over — weight balanced, stance low, breath held. The figure on the balcony was nothing but a silhouette framed in cold city light.

Then he stepped forward, hands lifted in mock surrender, a grin flashing beneath gold hair.

“Whoa, whoa! Easy there, Mrs. Gravano.” His tone was warm, teasing. “I come in peace. Promise.”

Behind me, Kayden’s body went still. Controlled danger in every ...