The first rays of dawn crept through the worn curtains, casting a golden glow over the room. Kieran stirred, the unfamiliar warmth against his skin making him pause before memory flooded back.

Julian.

His body ached in ways both foreign and satisfying. He turned slightly, eyes tracing the shape of the man beside him. Julian lay on his stomach, dark lashes resting against his cheekbones, his tousled hair spilling over the pillow. The sheets barely covered his back, revealing a trail of old scars along his spine—marks of a past Kieran knew nothing about.

Kieran hesitated. What now? The heat of the night had been undeniable, but in the morning light, reality settled in. He had allowed himself to be reckless, to let his guard down in ways he never had before.

As if sensing his gaze, Julian’s lips curved into a slow, knowing smile. Without opening his eyes, he murmured, “If you’re thinking about running, don’t. I bite.”

Kieran rolled his eyes, but the faintest smirk tugged at his lips. “I wasn’t running.”

Julian cracked an eye open, his golden-hazel gaze still heavy with sleep. “Good. Because after last night, I’d take it personally.” He reached up, fingers skimming lazily over Kieran’s wrist. “How are you feeling, my lord?”

Kieran exhaled. “I should be asking you that.”

Julian chuckled. “I’ll survive. But I wouldn’t say no to another round before breakfast.”

Kieran pushed him away with a scoff, though his heart pounded at the thought. “We have more important matters to discuss.”

Julian propped himself up on his elbow, watching him intently. “Such as?”

“The men who attacked the ballroom,” Kieran said, voice turning serious. “Who were they? And why were they after me?”

Julian’s teasing demeanor faded slightly, replaced by something more calculating. “You don’t get involved with people like them unless you’re already tangled in their web. Tell me, Kieran—what secrets are you keeping?”

Kieran tensed. He had plenty of secrets, but none he was ready to share.

Julian sighed, running a hand through his hair. “Fine. Keep your mysteries. But you should know something.” He met Kieran’s gaze, all traces of playfulness gone. “They weren’t just after you. They were after me too.”

Kieran’s blood ran cold. “Why?”

Julian leaned in, his lips grazing Kieran’s ear as he whispered, “Because I stole something from them. And now, they won’t stop until they get it back.”

Kieran’s heart pounded, though he wasn’t sure if it was from the words—or the way Julian’s breath sent a shiver down his spine.

Their night together had been a mistake. A beautiful, dangerous mistake. But somehow, Kieran knew—he was already in too deep to turn back now.

To be continued...