Chapter 16 - Ashes of the Past"I am expensive," Elena warned him, a small smile finally breaking through her stoic mask.
"I have unlimited funds," Cassian countered smoothly.
"I don't take orders blindly," she added.
"I expect you to challenge me," he replied.
"And if you ever lie to me, I will shoot you myself," she stated as a matter of fact.
Cassian grinned, utterly captivated by her fierce spirit.
"I would expect nothing less," he agreed.
The estate began to swarm with Cassian's loyal men, securing the perimeter and dragging bodies out of sight.
Elena walked over to the ruined mahogany desk, picking up her discarded white apron.
She looked at it for a long moment, realizing she was finally shedding the disguise she had worn for months.
She tossed it into the burning fireplace, watching the crisp white fabric turn to ash.
She was no longer hiding from her past.
She had found a new future in the ashes of this cartel war.
Cassian stood beside her, watching the fire reflect in her bright emerald eyes.
He knew she was dangerous, broken, and completely lethal.
And he knew he was completely drawn to her.
May you like
"What is your real name?" he asked quietly.
She turned to him, the flames dancing behind her.
