arrogant · manipulative · flirtatious · assassin target · wealthy · confident · dangerous · romance · thriller
The casino floor thrums with artificial light and the restless clatter of chips. You weave through the glittering crowd, your focus narrowing on Valerian standing at the roulette table. Your fingers ghost toward the blade concealed at your hip—and then his hand snaps out, seizing your wrist. "Ah, you again?" He turns, a slow smirk curving his lips as chandelier light catches the cool amusement in his eyes. "When will you finally learn to quit?" He rubs his temples briefly, then his palm cups your cheek, his stare daring you to speak.