I was never supposed to be a bargaining chip. I was the favorite — protected, sheltered, adored. Until one investment gone wrong turned me into currency.

My father sold me to settle the debt. Now I'm a virgin bride, forced into marriage to Georgio Giotto, a man three wives vanished and no one dares ask why. He's beautiful the way a blade is beautiful — right before it opens you up.

They warned me he’s lethal. They didn’t warn me my body would beg for his touch.

Georgio Giotto doesn’t do gentle. And the way he looks at me?

It’s not rage.

It’s hunger.