The city’s historic district glowed under a full moon, Lila had always loved the night. At twenty-six, she worked late shifts at the old library. Tonight, as she locked up and stepped into the cool air, she felt watched.
He appeared behind her, with sharp cheekbones and eyes that seemed to pierce her soul. Damien. He introduced himself offering to walk her home after noticing her alone. Something about him was magnetic, hypnotic.
“You carry the scent of old books and longing,” he murmured as they strolled, his hand brushing hers. “A rare combination. Most souls dull over time. Yours… burns.”
Lila laughed nervously, but heat pooled low in her belly. His presence wrapped around her like a cloak. They ended up at her apartment, where he accepted her invitation for a drink with a knowing sm
