The drawing room was draped in velvet the color of midnight, and candles flickered in ornate holders, casting dancing shadows across the mahogany furniture. I had arrived at Lord Blackwood's estate expecting nothing more than another tedious society gathering, but as the other guests filtered out one by one, I found myself increasingly alone.

Lord Blackwood moved with predatory grace around the room, his dark eyes fixed on me with an intensity that made my pulse quicken. The air seemed charged with something I couldn't quite name—something that sent shivers down my spine despite the warmth of the room

"Alice," he said, his voice low and resonant as he approached me. "I'm glad you stayed behind."

My heart raced as I looked up at him. There was something in his expression—something that went beyond mere politeness—that made me feel both exposed and intrigued.