I did do well trying to avoid every camera and guard stationed everywhere. It was like a maze, but in this case, I knew where I was going. Yet I had someone tailing me. Someone I really, really didnt want to be tailing me. He was known as a flirty dude, but with ill intent. Only to me he was known as a flirty dude, because i’m the only one who had ever encountered him anyways.. I simply began making quick turns through the halls, soon entering even damned ventilation systems. A squeeze, but it did the job. Soon, I was in the main hall where it was quiet, and I dropped down. Only to slap my hands over my mouth as a certain someone caught me.

“ Hey Isha. How ya been partner?” The flirty bastard grinned down at me, holding me like a damn puppet. I just walked away from his grasp, embarrassed. “ You can’t be here asshole! I have.. things to do!” I grumbled, face palming. He didnt respond, just putting his hands in his pockets like a moody teenager. He had brown eyes and gorgeous features, like his well muscled body that.. oh nevermind, what am I saying? He casually dangled something in front of my face. The thing I had been looking for. The whole reason for this stupid mission. I tried to snatch the bracelet, but he pulled it back, giving a ‘ tsk, tsk..’ “ What the hell, man? How did you find it?” She almost found it funny. Almost. “ I was just bored so I took it from a security guard. All I did was ask..” He had an innocent look in his eyes, full of dishonesty. “ You killed him? Man, that was unecessary, now you’re gonna have more charges against you if you get caught..” I just shook my head. This was unbelievable. “ Yeah, yeah. Listen, I wanted you to start teaching me how to use all your fancy gadgets and shit. If you do that for me, i’ll give you the bracelet.” He said. His brown eyes were serious, unwavering, unblinking. “ Gadge—? Oh. Ohhhhh.. dang. Really? Give me a time, but nothing from six a.m. to three p.m…” I thought for a moment, lost in the prospect of getting that bracelet, “ How about on weekends?” He nodded almost without a moment to spare, gave me the bracelet, threatened me, then disappeared. .. Mission complete?

   Now, on weekends as agreed, i taught him how to use the weaponary he didnt know how to use.

So for months now, he had been gaining knowledge from me. Was this a bad idea? Likely. But hey, he was a smart guy who helped with my missions. It was a win-win. Though, I cant help but feel some sort of attachment to him.. perhaps it sounds.. unreal. Oh well.

Ten years we’ve been married now, and thriving with two kids. ‘ Oh well,’ my ass.

Look where those silly gadget lessons got me.

In the heart of the city, the annual Masquerade Gala was in full swing, drawing the elite, the powerful, and the mysterious into its dazzling fold. The grand ballroom, adorned with crystal chandeliers and golden drapes, shimmered under the soft light, casting an almost magical glow over the evening. But beneath the surface of opulence and grace, secrets whispered like the rustling of silk gowns, and hidden agendas danced as freely as the guests.

Amidst the glittering crowd was Alex, a seasoned agent sent on a mission of the utmost importance: to swap a set of codes that could shift the balance of power in the international intelligence community. The codes were embedded in a small, innocuous-looking USB drive, nestled safely in the inner pocket of Alex’s tailored tuxedo. It was a simple enough task—at least, that’s what the briefing had implied.

However, there was a catch. The codes weren’t to be swapped just anywhere—they had to be exchanged in the midst of the Gala, under the very nose of the charming spy known only as "The Serpent." This agent was famous for their flawless track record and their unsettling ability to charm the truth out of anyone. And tonight, they were out for the same prize.

Alex knew better than to underestimate The Serpent. The spy’s reputation wasn’t merely for show; they were as cunning as they were alluring, with a smile that could disarm the most hardened agents. The key to success, Alex reminded themselves, was to remain unnoticed, to avoid any interaction that could lead to their cover being blown. The plan was simple: blend in, swap the codes, and slip out before The Serpent even realized they were there.

As Alex navigated the glittering sea of masks and whispered conversations, they spotted their contact—an ambassador known for his discretion. The ambassador was standing near a grand piano, casually sipping champagne and laughing at some joke shared among the group around him. Alex approached slowly, rehearsing the exchange in their mind. A brush of the hand, the USB drive passed over, and then a quick retreat.

But just as Alex was about to make the move, they felt a tap on their shoulder. They turned to see a figure dressed in a sleek black suit, their mask—a serpent coiled around a dagger—staring back at them with a cold, knowing gaze. It was The Serpent.

"Well, well," the spy purred, their voice a blend of silk and steel. "I didn’t expect to see you here, Alex."

Alex forced a smile, their heart racing. "Just enjoying the evening. You?"

The Serpent tilted their head slightly, their eyes glinting with amusement. "The same. Though, I must admit, the company is far more intriguing than I anticipated."

There was no way out now. The Serpent was too close, too aware. The plan, simple as it had seemed, was unraveling before Alex’s eyes. The ambassador was just a few feet away, oblivious to the tension building behind him.

Alex knew they had to think fast. If The Serpent realized the true purpose of their presence, the mission would be compromised. So, they did the only thing they could think of—turn the tables.

"You know," Alex said, their tone light, "I’ve heard a lot about you. But they say you're more charm than skill. Is that true?"

The Serpent raised an eyebrow, a hint of surprise flickering across their face before it was replaced with a smirk. "Is that a challenge?"

Alex shrugged, stepping closer, closing the gap between them. "Maybe. Or maybe it’s just curiosity. After all, it’s not every day one meets a legend."

For a moment, there was silence—a battle of wills fought in the space of a heartbeat. The Serpent’s gaze was sharp, assessing, but Alex held their ground, hiding the tension beneath a mask of indifference.

Then, slowly, The Serpent laughed—a low, melodic sound that sent a shiver down Alex’s spine. "You’re bold, I’ll give you that," they said, their voice barely above a whisper. "But boldness can be dangerous in this line of work."

Alex leaned in, their lips close to The Serpent’s ear. "So can hesitation."

And with that, they slipped the USB drive into The Serpent’s hand, as if passing a token of trust. It was a gamble—a desperate one—but it was all Alex had. The Serpent looked down at their hand, then back up at Alex, their expression unreadable.

"Interesting," The Serpent murmured. "You surprise me, Alex. But I wonder... what makes you think I won’t just take this and walk away?"

Alex smiled, a small, confident curve of the lips. "Because you wouldn’t want to miss the real party, would you?"

With that, Alex turned and walked away, not towards the exit, but deeper into the crowd. They didn’t have to look back to know that The Serpent was watching, calculating. It was a bluff—a dangerous one—but if The Serpent believed there was more at play, they’d hesitate just long enough.

Long enough for Alex to reach the ambassador, who had just finished his drink and was beginning to move. Alex fell into step beside him, their hand brushing against his in a practiced motion. The swap was made in an instant—a new USB drive in the ambassador’s pocket, the old one safely with Alex.

Alex didn’t slow their pace as they headed for the exit, blending into the flow of the guests. Behind them, The Serpent was still at the piano, the USB drive clutched in their hand, their eyes narrowing as they realized they’d been outplayed.

As Alex stepped out into the cool night air, they allowed themselves a small, victorious smile. It hadn’t been simple, not by a long shot, but they had avoided the charm, completed the swap, and left the gala with their mission accomplished.

And as for The Serpent? Well, Alex had a feeling this wouldn’t be the last time they crossed paths. But for tonight, at least, the game was theirs.

I ruffled the scarlet skirts clinging to my ankles and sucked another painstaking breath. Corsets truly weren't for the faint of heart. "I need eyes, Harrison," I grumbled. "Get me to the case so I can swap the codes and get out of this blasted place." Harrison's amused snort crackled through my earpiece. "What, you aren't cut out for the fancy life?" "Not funny." "Okay, okay. Doctor Mathis has the briefcase. See him? I'm transferring visual." A moment later, my contact lens circled a bullseye around the head of a man with slick black hair. His mustache curled over his lips, giving him the appearance of a Victorian era gentleman. Not that this place was too far from "Victorian era", as my corset so gently reminded me. "Got it. Give me five minutes." "You have three." I rolled my eyes, stepping out from my secluded corner of the room. My steps were quick and light, steady on their set course. At least my dress was long enough to allow me to wear tennis shoes. Goodness knows I'd break an ankle in heels. The breeze from movement was a welcome grace to my sticky skin after waiting in the stuffy corner. Almost there. Three more steps. Then I could work my... magic. My shoulder bumped into another. "My apologies, I should've-" I stopped mid sentence, blood turning to ice. "Goodness, Celeste. Haven't you ever learned to watch where you're going?" Deep brown eyes gazed at me from a face lightly dusted with freckles, and perfectly combed hair. Ethan. I stumbled for words. I only had one shot; I couldn't mess this up. "Ethan. It's been a while, hm? I see you haven't changed." He smirked, and his eyes twinkled just like they always had. "Neither have you, still spying for the agency." "I am doing no such thing!" I said incredulously,. In my peripheral vision, Doctor Mathis took hold of his case and walked across the room. My insides squirmed. This was the last thing I needed right now. Ethan clicked his tongue. "Celeste, you know you can't lie to me." His eyes flickered away from me, following Doctor Mathis. "The government wants what's in that case. You can't have it." "The government wants more power. They're destroying lives, Ethan. You can't have it. I won't let you." He cocked an eyebrow, "Oh? We'll see about that." He adjusted his tie and strode swiftly away. My pulse thundered in my ears. I had one job... and I blew it. Unless... I hadn't. "Harrison," I barked, "it's time to go rogue." "What? You're serious?" His voice reached a pitch that shouldn't have been possible for a sixteen year old. "Finally I get to use this thing!" I heard him fumbling with something. "Give me five minutes." He snickered. I smirked, "you have three."

I haven’t moved. I’m frozen in his words, burnt by his presence. I haven’t moved from this spot for five minutes since he uttered those words. Those treacherous sinful words. Fuck send me to the depths, if it means I can give up and give in to him.

He shouldn’t be this way. He shouldn’t be able to crawl beneath my skin like this. I've always been level-headed in the most testing situations. This wasn’t new to me. People used charm and seduction frequently in my line of work. Seduction was a powerful tool. But my god. I’d never seen it be used so well.

My mind was fighting with itself. On the one hand, I have a task. Straying off course could fuck up this entire operation, potentially killing me and Aaron in the process. On the other hand, my body has never burned with lust for another human being so much in my entire life.

I stare at him now. Watching as his chest moves, rapidly. Desperately. He takes deep breaths of oxygen, stealing mine in the process.

“Fuck. Valentina. You can’t look at me like that. Those eyes. You’re a fucking temptress.” He takes his lower lip between his teeth. He had this power, this ability, to call to something deep and Dark within me. He had my core aching with need.

“You can’t say those things I can’t think straight, Aaron.”

“So stop thinking, let me clear your head.” He steps closer, too close. His scent is woody with hints of spice, making for an intoxicating concoction.

I've never known a man to be so giving. For them to find so much pleasure in mine. This revelation did nothing to ease my appetite for him. I found my body giving in before I could tell myself no.

“Okay,” I tell him. My eyes find his, his stare is so dark, so lustful. My stomach swirled in response. My cheeks burn with blush. “Just distract me, please.” I practically beg. I don’t know who I am at this minute. Who I’ve become. What I’m doing.

He sweeps his eyes across me, as though he’s trying to ensure I want this. Want him. He must find it in my expression because he nods.

“Let me make you feel good.” He says, his tone is gentle. The sun pouring into the room casts across his face. It entwines with his tanned skin, emphasising his razor-sharp jawline.

“Okay.” Is all I can manage, entranced by him.

“I’m a man of my word. Sit on the edge of the desk,” he commands. The rasp of his voice sends delicious sparks straight to my core.

I find myself obeying him, sitting on the edge of the desk behind me. This wasn’t like me, to follow commands. But something about submitting to this man heated my skin like nothing else

“How would you like me, Valentina? Should I be rough? Gentle?” he asks, his voice dripping with pure sex.

“Gentle,” I say without thinking.

He smiles in response, it's warm and genuine. “I’m going to kiss you now.” He states, closing the distance between us. He grabs my face with both hands, staring at each inch of my face as if memorising. Me or the moment, I’m not sure.

I find myself speechless, lost in him. He meets his lips to mine, with a pace that fogs my mind. He runs light hands through my hair. I return his kiss, clasping his lips, needing more of him. As he works the kiss deeper I taste him. Mint and whiskey. The combination is mind-numbing.

His movements are expert. He kisses me in a way that tells me he knows exactly what he is doing and he wants me to know just that. I ramp up the kiss, teasing his tongue with mine. The groan that comes from him, is a sound I will never forget. Without warning he pulls back. His hair is dishevelled. His lips are bruised with my lipstick, and fuck if that isn’t the hottest sight I’ve ever come across.

“I’m a starved man, I’m craving you, Valentina.” He rasps, his voice octaves deeper. The need in his tone heats my skin further.

Fuck. Where does he pull these lines from?

I lean back, pulling my hands from him to lean onto the desk. He looks edible. “Tell me what you want, Aaron,” I command, loving the fact that I have to look up to him and yet I hold every ounce of power.

Flames lick at the centre of his mismatched eyes.“You, I want to taste you. Devour you. I want you to understand the power you hold.”

“Oh, I understand,” I respond. Resting my heel above his waistline. He smirks at my response, groaning with pleasure as I dig the pointed end of my shoe into his chest. “On your knees then,” I demand, to which he wastes no time in doing so. His looking at me from above was beyond attractive, but below? To bring such a powerful man to his knees, with nothing but heat in his eyes as he kneels before you. Jesus Christ. I will think about this moment forever, probably with my hand between my thighs.

He never takes his eyes off of mine, increasing the intensity of his every movement. He parts my legs leisurely. Dragging his fingertips across my legs and upwards until he reaches my thighs. He pauses on my knife holster. His eyes hone in on the blade, enjoying the sight of it against my body, "You’re keeping this on,” he instructs. He continues his exploration, squeezing my legs, “fuck could you get any sexier, these thick fucking thighs.” He appears entranced by them, proceeding to attach his mouth to them. He sucks and laps ferociously at my inner thighs.

The sensation of his tongue against my skin has me feverish. He continues the action until he becomes dangerously close to my heat. He shocks me when he stops abruptly, pulling his head from underneath my dress. “I know you’re fucking soaking, Valentina, I want to hear you. Don’t make me ask again.” I whine in response, uncaring of anything coherent with the things he was making me feel.

His mouth latches onto my skin, pulling my dress further and further up until my behind is entirely exposed. He takes a long moment to stare at my underwear, fascinated. As though he was a teenage boy losing his virginity. I relished the fact that I had brought him to that state of transfixion. “If you don't come, I want you to slash me with this knife, okay?” he says, entirely serious.

“Aaron, what the f-.”

He cuts me off immediately, “No discussion, let a man eat.”

I moan at his response, unashamed of my attraction to him and his quick words. With no hesitation, he draws back to his previous position. His tongue laps at the flesh of my thighs, relentless in his actions. He continues the movements with his mouth. Drawing close to my underwear, he kisses and sucks the skin beside it. His touch is too near and too far from the spot I most wanted it. “Aaron,” I moan, pleading for him to kiss me where I need to be kissed.

His eyes lock with mine, as he sucks at my flesh. “That.” Kiss. “Fucking.” Kiss. “Voice.”

His fingers graze the waistband of my underwear. He glides his fingertips to the middle of me, stopping exactly where he knows he needs to fucking carry on. My head falls as I begin to ache with need. “Please,” I beg, my voice verging on a mewl.

In an instant he answers my plea, placing his mouth directly on my heat. He laps at the material of my underwear with his tongue. “You’re fucking soaked, I knew I got you hot. What was it that tipped you over the edge hm? What was it that I said that got this perfect pussy drenched?” He taunted, continuing to lick my centre above the fabric. My head spun from the sensation.

“You and and that fucking ego.” I moan, my words contradicting the sounds he was pulling from me.

He rips my underwear clean off, causing a satisfying whip sound. He then does the unthinkable, he bites my clit. “Take that as a warning, tell me.” He demands, his expression forcing me into submission.

“It was your sheer confidence at first. Then it was the way you can submit to me. That’s what got me hot for you.” I confess, breathing harder as he continues to bite my clit. He detaches himself as soon as I utter the words. My response pleases him, a slow sultry smile forms across his face. “This is what you like? Me on my knees for you? My filthy words? I knew from the minute I saw you, that you were a siren, calling to me with that pretty fucking face, and this,” he makes a show of taking in my body, appreciating my every curve. “Unreal body of yours, it’s fucking sinful.”

Before I can speak he places his mouth on my core, licking and sucking at my clit. Not giving me a moment to breathe. Fuck he is talented. His tongue moves in precise movements, bringing me closer to my release. I gasp as his rhythm increases. I look down to find his eyes on my face, entranced by me. “I’m gonna come if you keep looking at me like that,” I pant. Perspiration begins to form on my skin.

His eyes grow darker. He brings his fingers to my mouth, ”open,” he instructs. I welcome them, sucking and licking, swirling my tongue around the two of them. “Such a good girl, taking me like that.” I push my mouth deeper onto his fingers. His lips part as he watches me. “I swear I could come from the mere sight of you. You are breathtaking.” He groans, withdrawing his fingers from my mouth, now soaked with my saliva. He lines his fingers up to my entrance, watching my reaction as he does so. My face contorts in pleasure, as he sinks his fingers into me. He curls his fingers into me as he massages the most pleasurable areas of my body. He swirls my clit with his thumb, making for an eye-rolling combination. He works my body until I’m whining, rolling my hips against his hand.

“That’s it, fucking using me, use me for your pleasure.” His brows pull taut as he watches his hand move within me, switching his gaze from his hand to my face. I moan at his salacious words, whining with need as my muscles tighten in my belly. He works his hand deeper, using his other to apply pressure to my stomach, intensifying the feeling. He works my body until I’m screaming, soaking his hand with my release. My legs shake as he draws my orgasm from me. Fuck. I’ve never come that hard in my life.

He laps up every drop of my release, not wasting an ounce. “You taste incredible.” He moans unashamedly, as his mouth latches to my heat, licking me ravenously. My legs jerk as he makes contact with my oversensitive clit.

I stare at him in awe, his head resting on my thighs as he watches me.

“So, did I successfully distract you?”

The sound of ticking forces me to pause. “What the fuck is that?” I whisper shout to the man beside me, whipping my head to every corner of Rossis’ office. I’m usually calm in the worst of situations but nothing about that noise paired with the rossis’s reputation calms me.

“I thought my presence was useless?” He smirks, watching me dart around the room to locate the source of the noise, overturning papers and boxes.

“Fuck you’re irritating,” I scowl at him as he stands still with his arms folded, simply watching me instead of helping.

I scurry to every inch of the room trying to find the cause of the ticking noise. I still when the noise abruptly stops.

“Well that can’t be good,” he comments, with raised brows in mock fear. Loving my panic far too much.

We stand there together in silence, waiting. Panic arises in me when the sound begins again, only this time it is quicker, harsher.

“Aaron, come on. At least fucking help me search,” I shout, furious with his incompetence.

His eyes widen fractionally, his expression sobering, “say that again,” he demands.

I huff a dry humourless laugh, perplexed at his meaning. ”What? your name? You freak, Aaron seriously I don’t have time for this, neither do you. We don’t know what that noise means.” I plead, my voice uneven. I hate not knowing, I always need constant control. Of everything.

“I think I just came. Fuck. That voice.” He sinks his teeth into his lower lip, groaning. This man is certified insane, how is he taking more of an interest in my voice than a possible fucking bomb?

I blink at him, shortly distracted from my panic. I didn’t expect him to be so, vocal, about his feelings.

“I’ll say it again If you help me locate that noise,” I offer, desperate. I know, but Come on, I could get blown up here.

He sharpens immediately, Surprising me with his subservience. He looks thoroughly through just about every nook and cranny, searching in spots I hadn’t. If he wasn’t so irritating I’d be impressed.

“And this,” He holds out a short black circular device, with a red blinking dot placed dead centre of it. “Is why you need me.” His smug expression sits neatly on his sculpted face. “We dismantled these in the first year of training, it’s just a standard sensor device. It will only alert its owner after thirty seconds, so we’re good,” he breezes out, apparently passionate about the subject. The thought that he was possibly a tech geek, an amusing one. “Mm, you’ve proved yourself useful I suppose. Nice work. Why are you on this one, this mission? Please, just be honest.” I can’t trust him immediately, I can’t be foolish, like that.

He appears amused with my question. “I’m here solely to ensure the mission goes well, ask your chief. I don’t want credit. I also don’t play dirty. Well, between working hours.” A smirk tugs on his lips.

His words sting a little, did chief think I wasn’t able to complete this independently? I mean I know I took a long break but fuck. This was a kick in the tits. I come out on top every time in training. I worked damn hard to get to where I am today. Which part of that says incapable?

“Wow. Well for the record, I’m good at my fucking job, okay? God, how dare he have me babysat. I don’t need you overseeing me. You’re here because my chief is a fucking moron.” I spit, indirectly to Aaron.

“I’ve seen your rankings, Valentina. You’re skilled, it’s merely a precaution. These people.”He closes his eyes momentarily, inhaling deeply. Why would this affect him? He doesn’t know what went down, does he? “Well, you already know. It would be foolish to send anyone in alone, especially in this fucking den of vipers.” He looks sombre, I have an urge to ask how much he knows.

“I guess there’s no point getting hung up on it, I’m here to do a job, and that’s all. You, you do whatever you want.” I huff.

“You naughty girl, we might have ten minutes,” he winks, to which I can’t help but laugh at his ridiculousness.

No. Fuck. He is not likeable.

“Nah you’re definitely a five-minute man.” I snort

“Mm I like a challenge, my face is very comfortable,” he replies, smooth as anything.

My head spins a little with these quick responses of his. I’m not equipped for such a smart mouth, well smart in the sense he was quick. This imbecile displays very little emotional intelligence. His brain resides south, above the knee, below the belt. I just need to block him out. I can do that, right?

“I don’t even have a response,” I shake my head in disbelief at his sharp comebacks.

His eyes flicker with satisfaction, to have me speechless is quite a feat to be fair. I won’t give in to him though.

“Just behave, alright? Say whatever but don’t distract me.” I order him, a little more flustered than I thought.

“I’m distracting you?” He asks, stepping a foot closer.

His scent invades my lungs, there’s a manliness to it. It’s rough and heady. I take a step back, hating the way my blood heats at something so simple. Fuck have some restraint, Valentina. I don’t understand what’s wrong with me. Was it the lack of social interaction from these last few months of isolation? Im not usually affected this easily.

I take a breath, before speaking. “Yes, by being a sleazy dick, now if you don’t mind I have work to do,” I say, hard and blunt.

He watches me, making a show of it. He’s trying to work me out. Being flustered isn’t in my nature, so why on earth is this stranger making me believe it is?

“It’s funny, I was told you were an excellent liar. I’m disappointed. What is it they say in body language class? Dilated pupils? Apples of the cheeks become rosy. Slight sheen on the forehead.” He closes the space between us, suffocating me with that treacherous scent, fuck you hormones. His eyes flicker to my chest. ”Increased pulse. That’s some deep breathing you’re doing there Valentina,” he states, his voice rough. His tone accusing. I consider his words, why am I breathing so heavily? And I’m hot, mid July hot. God this is not good. Pull yourself together Val. You’re better than this. I’m not giving in. I will not have a man ruin my mission. “Okay, you’ve officially lost your mind. You know nothing, just stop talking.” I urge, verbally putting my foot down.

He gives a knowing smile, allowing me to have the final word, but really, he had it.

“So what’s the plan, baby?” he asks, his voice now gentle, a vast difference from thirty seconds ago.

God, he makes this difficult.

“Well, I’ve done the hard part. I thought it would be much harder to get up here. I’d assume there would be guards outside the door not just a lock.” I mutter, now slightly worried that I didn’t considered that before. Am I really that rusty?

“Oh yeah, there were. They got taken care of,” he states offering nothing else.

“Fuck why did I not think of this before,” I say, more to myself.

Shock floods me when a calloused hand strokes my jaw, ”Valentina look at me.” He instructs, his tone serious, something in it calls to me to listen. ”I saw what you did to Mr Morgenstern, Clifton, in the hallway. You didn’t hesitate to put him down. You’re a fucking badass, you shouldn’t doubt yourself it’s pointless. Some things are out of our control. Had you seen the guards I took out, I’m certain you would’ve handled it swiftly and efficiently. This isn’t pity, it’s recognition. You’ve seen horrific things, you wouldn’t be blamed if you retired, but you understand how much those girls need to be avenged. You’re fucking incredible, don’t you dare forget it.” His eyes hold such an intensity, that it becomes difficult to hold his gaze. My jaw burns in the absence of his hand.

He read my personal file. The intimacy of that knowledge makes his physical presence all the more intense. What the fuck do I even say to that? Thankyou? Except, that doesn’t feel enough.

“Oh, I didn’t know you knew about what happened. You’re right yeah, that’s why I'm doing this. For them. I’m not good at emotional shit, okay? But thank you, Aaron.” I nod, appreciative of his words.

He steps back, as though he shocked himself with his sudden outburst of praise. “You’re welcome. Now, let’s hear about that plan,” he says, a little cold for my liking. But I can’t begin to focus on pathetic things like that. I have a mission, that is my only priority.

“I’ve researched this place thoroughly, the stupid prick thinks he’s so smart. I’ve memorised the blueprint, to put it simply he’s built passages inside his walls. It’ll be a little intricate getting through each wall but I’m confident I have sufficient time to do it, so, you coming?” I ask, amped and ready to swap these fucking codes and leave this version of hell.

I turn to move but stop in my tracks when he gives me a look that knocks the breath from my body.

“You’re so fucking admirable Valentina, do you know that? You don’t even need me, anyone. You're capable and beyond skilled. You’ve got my blood hot. If not today, or tomorrow or the next day. I will wait. I want nothing more than to have my head between your thighs. I don’t want anything, I don’t care about me. I just want to give you everything, all of it. That smart fucking mouth, the way you took Clifton down. I’ve never wanted to have my arm broken more in my life,” he breathes heavily, his chest rises and falls so quickly I worry he might have a stroke. His gaze is heavy, consumed with lust. The greenish-blue tint swallowed up by his enlarged pupils. The sight stirs my stomach.

I match his breathing, his desperation for me. This is past an act now. He doesn’t need to put this on, he shouldn’t be saying this. But fuck do I want him to carry on. This is so wrong, I shouldn’t feel aroused on a job. Where is my self-restraint?

“Aaron, stop talking. I can’t-“

“Can’t what, can’t do this? Like I said, I’ll wait. But fuck if you said yes right now I wouldn’t hesitate to shove you on that desk, and devour you right this minute. I’ve done my research you know. These walls.” He begins to walk toward me, not stopping until my back reaches the desk he just spoke of. “They’re soundproof,” he states. I put my hand on his chest, unsure of whether I was pushing him away or simply needing to touch him. “Aaron.” I breathe, not knowing what else to say. I know right from wrong. I swear I do. But his presence currently had me questioning whether that was true. How could a person's words affect another, so much? He hasn’t touched me and my skin is on fire. “Valentina,” he responds, also unable to find words for the electricity sitting between us.

“Perfect! Beautiful as ever Val!” I stated aloud, what? A girl’s gotta love herself. I retrieved my thigh holster, ensuring all straps were tightly fastened as I slipped the knife into its allotted space. The cool metal chilled me, resulting in goosebumps, it had been a while. But time away would do nothing to deter me from completing my task tonight. After I gave my appearance a once over, I rehearsed my instructions. Infiltrate the gala, and swap the codes. Avoid the charming spy.

I'd been warned not to get caught up in distractions_, especially the one I would face tonight. _Spys were evasive and deceptive, we had to be, it’s what had been ingrained in us. But he was something entirely different.

As the time to leave drew closer, I finished my lipstick, appreciating the way it matched my attire. I tussled my hair for volume and adjusted my Scarlett red gown over my holster. Once I was satisfied with my appearance, I slipped out of my apartment and into my ride.

I took deep rhythmic breaths, to center myself. Time alone forced me to sit with my thoughts, an activity I’d prefer not to engage in. My last mission ruined me, for months I never left my bed. I’d become haunted by the actions of others. I had to rid myself of that mindset. If I got hung up on every mistake I made it would render me useless.

As we shifted toward the final corner, my breath caught in my throat. Chief wasn’t kidding when he said this was a big deal. A house, no scratch that, a fucking palace stood before me.

I stepped out onto the driveway, my heels dug into the gravel. This prompted a crunch to sound out into the otherwise silent space. Was I early? The lack of noise was eerie. I inhaled the scent of lavender surrounding me, allowing it to ground me.

I shuddered when I recognised some familiar faces infront of me. I shoved the blurs of horror and torture endured, deep down. I wouldn’t enjoy the company I had to keep tonight. They were vermin, every last one of them.

I don’t realise I’m in a daze until a male voice halts me, “Miss? Can I see your ID please?” his voice was cold, and his gaze was impassive.

I gave a high-pitched laugh as though I hardly knew which planet I was on, “God sorry! World of my own. It’s Valentina, last name Monetti.” I served a sickly sweet smile as I handed him my driver's license.

He skimmed his notepad, to find my name. I maintained my smile, I had to keep my act up at all times. His eyes met mine, satisfaction in his gaze, ”Welcome to Huntington Manor, Ms Monetti,” he repeated as though this was his millionth time saying the phrase, which it probably was. Poor fuck.

The reedy blare of classical music bombarded me as I opened the sickeningly wealthy doors. who the fuck has gold-encrusted hinges? My pulse began to match the rhythm of the music, I couldn’t lose face for a single moment. Eyes would be on me at all times.

I studied the room, frozen in place as I took in the scene before me. I had to stop myself gawking. My stomach churned at the grandiosity of the place. The chandeliers glinted, swaying back and forth as people drifted throughout. The sun began to bleed into the room. Centuries old paintings, were hung across the space. This place oozed affluence.

Waiters were placed at every turn. _Jesus, who needs that much champagne? _ These people had to have everything by the dozen. This was only emphasized by the fountains that ran red with wine.

I stiffen when I feel a hand on my back, stay fucking calm, and don't react.

“Nervous?” the voice asked from beside me, dark and raspy. I spun my head to put a face to the voice. His eyes glinted with mischief, a mix of green and blue. I couldn't decide which of the two colours they were. His expression screamed determination, beneath the easy smile he had plastered on.

“Not in my vocabulary. I see they didn’t teach you etiquette.” I remarked, removing his hand from my back.

His smirk deepened. “And why’s that?”

“Some might consider it proper to at least introduce yourself before touching a person.” I didn’t bother to meet his gaze.

I then felt the warmth of him as he neared me, his mouth was centimetres from my neck. ”Sweetheart, I should warn you, there is absolutely nothing proper about me.” His tone implied a deeper meaning to his words.

I brushed him off, spotting a table of champagne flutes. I knew better than to consume anything I was provided. There had been rumours the esteemed hosts liked to add a little something to drinks. Apparently to ensure their guests had a good time. Fucking creeps. Though naturally, as a woman, I always carried a drug test for drinks.

I turned on my heel in search of the toilet. A few dimly lit hallways later, I spotted a symbol for the ladies. The space was just as lavish as expected. Gold everything. I slipped into the first cubicle and pulled the strip out of my purse. After five minutes my phone dinged. I rechecked the strips. They were the same colour, thank fuck. I needed one for liquid courage. I knocked back my champagne and peed, in case I didn’t get a chance later.

Bang! The wall stood next to me thudded. I flinched at the nearness, momentarily frozen as I let the situation unfold before I stepped in. Fucking brilliant, this is just what I need.

“GET BACK HERE!” A male voice boomed outside in the hallway. I darted out of my cubicle, and stood off to the side of the toilet door, ready to pounce. “Leave me alone Clifton, I’ve told you a million times!” A woman screeched, fear evident in her tone. Okay, this may have required my attention. I swung the door open. I was eager to know why the man before me thought it was acceptable to take that kind of tone with a woman. I assessed them both in seconds. She was terrified, he was raging. There was only one way to defuse this. Well, the least violent way. For him, that is. Shame, really.

“Thank god you’re here, I’m bleeding everywhere. Do you have a tampon? Extra heavy flow?” I cried out in distress, clinging to the blonde. She understood my ploy effortlessly . Fuck I love women and our intuition. The man's face screwed up in disgust, ”Lily I don’t have time for this shit, come with me now.” He demanded. If I wasn’t who I was, I would have recoiled from the tone in his voice. He was begging for my blade at this point.

“Clifton she’s a friend, I have to help her,” my heart stung with the way her voice wobbled.

His expression hardens, unhappy with Lily’s response. He attempted to grab her upper arm, to which I quickly intercepted. I grabbed his arm, and twisted it until I heard the delicious sound of his bone breaking. I met his eyes, and lowered myself to his position on the floor. “If You so much as contact this beautiful woman again, I promise there won’t be a bone in your body unbroken. Is that clear?” When he didn’t respond I got started on his other arm. “FUCK FINE. YES OKAY.” He sobbed, as he gathered his pathetic self and limped away.

“Thank you so much, you have no idea how much you have saved me. Did you need a tampon though?” She asked, smiling shyly.

“No baby I’m good, just a ruse. Will you be safe from here I can arrange you to be escorted.” I offered, worried Clifton would reappear in my absence. She shook her head, and followed with a warm smile. “I’m leaving town tonight. Far from him. I have family to stay with, so I’ll be okay. Thankyou again, I’ll never forget it.” She then wrapped her arms around me, leaving me with a grateful smile.

I strode toward the stairs feigning a wobble, as though I were tipsy, incase of onlookers. The room I needed access to would be impossible to enter through the front door. So I had to be smart. Tim Rossi was the head of the family. He had his office adjoining the room I needed. An illustration sat opposite his office. It depicted a woman beheading a man beneath her, with the help of her maid. That is art. I was half surprised Rossi hung such a portrayal considering his treatment of women.

My back snapped straight as a creak sounded among the floorboards behind me. “Discreet isn't in your skill set is it,?” sounded the raspy voice of my earlier annoyance.

“I could say the same thing about you, a very heavy footing you have there.” I threw my words at him, not caring for his conversation. I turned my attention back to my task of unlocking Rossi’s door.

“Mm,” is the only response he gave me, perusing the space around us.

I considered asking him to keep watch but decided against it. This wasn't a team effort. I didn’t operate in pairs.

“Your presence here is pointless you know that right?” I stated, sparing a glance toward him, to find that he watched my task intently.

“It seems not, you need some help sweetheart?” he smirked, as he began to walk closer toward me. His long strides ate the space between us.

“You sure do love that word. I have a name, you dick,” I spit back, fed up with his phoney charm.

“I do when it riles you so easily.” He smiled, flashing his fang like teeth.

I couldn’t underestimate his motives, this is almost certainly a distraction so that he can take credit when I complete this mission. I had to keep my wits about me. “I assure you, when I’m riled you’ll know about it. Why on earth they think you are charming,is beneath me.” I patted his shoulder in fake pity.

He remained composed, undeterred by my comment. He took another step toward me, lowering his head to meet my height. “I guarantee you Valentina, If I were to switch this charm on, I’d have you writhing beneath me, panting obscenities as you beg me to touch you.” His voice is a volume only I can hear, increasing the intimacy of his words. The certainty in his tone caught me off guard. I pushed the sensation deep down, despising ever feeling unsure of myself.

“Writhing? Please, I bet you’ve never satisfied a woman in your life.” I retorted, my voice riddled with sass, as I moved my tools back and forth inside the door lock

He runs his eyes across my face, unbothered by my comment. I had to hand it to him, he was determined. Delusional, but determined. “Are you telling me, or yourself that false information? Happy to demonstrate otherwise.” He taunted as he watched me.

I simply rolled my eyes at him, not bothering to dignify his words with a response. Moments later the click of the lock sounded out. “Yes!” I triumphed, still fucking got it Val.

I pushed the door open, and spun round to place my hand firmly on his chest. “Make yourself useful, or don’t talk, got it?” I Instructed him.

“Yes ma’am,” his voice was husky, as he stepped toward me.

Part two in progress🩷

(^ I literally am thou-)

“Alright Connor, you know what to do.” Aaron says over the coms.

“Yeah yeah,” Connor says walking into the gala and adjusting his tie, “step one doneee.”

“Good.”

“Now time for me to swap codes and avoid a spy, how hard is that- LORD MARY JESUS!” Connor whispers loudly covering his mouth and turning away.

“Connor…”

“Is it hot in here? I think it's like 100 degrees-” Connor rambles.

“Oh my gosh,” Aaron sighs, his facepalm heard from the other side.

“You didn't tell me she was hot?!” Connor says sweating.

“I did. You weren't listening.” Aaron chuckles at his stupidity.

“What? When?!” Connor ask confused.

“This morning- she's coming towards you!” Aaron warns.

• the woman walks over and taps Connor on his shoulder. Connor turns around slowly and smiles awkwardly-

“Hello Detective.” The woman says.

“Detective! Pfft I'm no detective!” Connor exaggerats, lying through his teeth.

“And I can't see your com falling out of your ear.” The woman smiles as Connor pushes the intercom in his ear.

-Meanwhile Aaron is banging his head on the table-

“Well I figure your here ruining my mission, Detective Jones.”

“Your- This was me and Detectuves Fritz’s mission! Miss…. Ummm.” Connor starts as Aaron groans.

“Agent Grace, Kennedy Grace. Maybe you should know the spys your trying to avoid.”

“Well- no one gave me information!”

-earlier that day…-

 “The spy your avoiding is Agent Kennedy Grace. She is hot but she is dangerous.” Aaron explains as Connor plays with puzzles.

 “Uh-huh yeah…”

-back to present-

“Please! Detective Fritz is not stupid.” Kennedy says.

“Fine! Maybe he did and I didn't listen, but this is my case!” Connor says getting closer.

“Maybe, but it all depends on who solves it, first!” Kennedy says booping Connors nose.

“Wha- don't-” Connor stutters swatting her hand away.

Kennedy leans into his ear, “Get in my way, and I will kill you.” She kissed his cheek and walks away leaving Connor speechless.

….

“Well shit.”

The invitation was a heavy, gilded cardstock, cheerfully reflecting the twinkling lights strung above the driveway as I strolled up to the door.

“Check, Donovan,” I mutter, barely moving my mouth, feigning an interest in the ornate architecture of the Gilded Age mansion before me.

“All clear, Scout,” the voice in my ear came through clearly, the minute microphone working perfectly. “Move to the left when you go inside.”

I sweep towards the entrance, handing my invitation to the butler with a radiant smile.

He appears unimpressed, but ushers me in nonetheless with a simple “Welcome to the DeVeau’s,” before turning to check the invitations of the couple coming up behind me.

I smile faintly to myself, always surprised with just how easy it was to infiltrate events such as this. As long as you wore the right clothing, and moved the right way, the rich were as ignorant as anyone else that you were a wolf amongst them.

Gliding through the doors, I allowed myself one sweeping glance at the entry way before moving purposefully to the left.

“About ten more paces, the middle door,” Donovan murmurs in my ear. I move through the crowd easily, nodding here and there, a faint smile plastered blandly on my face.

The door leads to a darkened hallway - one clearly not meant to be inhabited during this particular party. Its walls are lined with gaudy portraits, presumably of the DeVeau’s and their ancestors. The portraits eyes gave the impression of following me as I scurried past them.

“These portraits are creeping me out.”

“I know, right? Go around the corner, then it’ll be the third door on the left.”

I followed his instructions dutifully, easing the door open and slipping inside. It shut behind me with a soft thud.

I found myself in a terrarium, the moonlit courtyard visible through the glassed walls on the right hand side, lush foliage lining a narrow pathway through the room. The air was crisp in here, a lingering smell of sweet flowers and earth falling over the room.

“Do you see a path winding to the left? Follow that to a fountain.”

The room stretched further than I had envisioned, and I quickly lost sight of the door I had passed through. The humid air pressed heavily against my skin, muffling the minute sounds my movements made.

“Nearly…there. The drop is just under the fountain by the cherubs head; there should be a compartment hidden there.”

I dropped to my knees in front of the fountain, running my hands along its base, slick from the spray of the water above. I could be in and out within ten minutes if I could just-

“May I ask what you’re doing with my family’s fountain?”

I shut my eyes, frustrated with my own distraction. Slowly, I stood, resolving my face into a vapid smile before turning to face the intruder.

He looked as all wealthy men do - neat as a pin, elegantly dressed, hair swept back off his forehead. He stood with his hands clasped before him, looking utterly bored; but his eyes betrayed him, flashing with a cool, calculating intelligence.

“I was looking for the lady’s room, and entered in here by accident - but then I was far too enchanted with the beauty of it to leave immediately,” I say, with a breathy voice designed to charm and soothe. I even let out a titillating laugh to sell the dumb, helpless female act.

He doesn’t appear to buy it. “I believe the lady’s rooms were clearly marked off by the entrance.”

Another airy giggle. “I’m sure they must be, I truly can be so daft sometimes. I’ll take my leave, then.”

A broad hand wrapped around my bicep as I tried to nonchalantly stroll past him. Slowly, I turned to face him.

A faint smile played on his lips. “Do you know what I think?”

“No,” this came out quite a bit more blunt, efforts of convincing him I was a stupid, harmless broad out the window. I prayed he couldn’t hear Donovan muttering “shit, shit, shit” in my ear with his close proximity.

“I think,” one large hand reached out to push an errant curl behind my ear, “that you are exactly where you intended to be.”

The calloused pads of his thumbs brush against my cheek, his gentle touch at odds with the growing ice in his eyes.

“Guards closing in in the hallway; you’ve got maybe two minutes before you’re surrounded.” Donovan’s frantic typing could be heard in the background. I need to extricate myself - immediately.

The gentleman’s hand it still gently stroking my face until all of a sudden - he reaches out and plucks my ear piece out of my mess of curls. My mouth falls open as he examines the flesh colored, pea sized device. Slowly, he crushes it in his massive hand, then dumps it to the floor, grinding it in with his heel.

I can’t hear Donovan’s words but I can imagine the tizzy he’s in.

The man locks eyes with me, mouth quirking up to the side. “Much nicer now that it’s just the two of us, don’t you think, Agent Fern?”

I don’t let his knowledge of my code name ruffle me. My brow furrows delicately as I say, “this does complicate things you know.”

His one eyebrow arches elegantly. “Does it?”

I smile up at him, sweet as pie. “Now, I have to kill you.”

I thought my instructor said I had the easy job today, but I know she’s just taking it out on me when I won at bowling night. That’s alright, I’ll make sure to surprise her with something later.

Now how the hell do I get out of this vent again?

Squirming her way inch by inch, Talia steadies her breathing making sure no sound is heard by the guards below her. She was picked for this job only because of her petite size and mouse like silence she is capable of executing. People told her all of the time how quiet she was and how loud she needed to learn to be or how she needed to speak up (thanks dad) but she kind of liked scaring the wits out of her loved ones popping up only to ask them simple questions but startling them instead or not letting her existence be known to others until they turn and see her standing right there scaring the living crap out of them. It fills her with joy every time.

She’s almost to her exit keeping up on the minimum noise with the help of her body suit only to hear one guard below begin yawning, starting to stretch, long enough arms coming up swiftly but gently hitting the top of the vent where she’s laying.

Talia stops every motion in her body but her heart is going a million miles a minute praying that she doesn’t give away her position. His arms fall to his side once more gesturing to the others how he’s going for his break.

You know even if that was the luckiest thing that happened to me today, I would’ve loved it if total destruction would have happened only because my romantic butt would have been taken over by some strong man’s arms catching me mid fall and then my heist life could end there and maybe have a happily ever after but instead here I am still in this vent trying not to die overexerting my poor heart.

Exiting the vent was a breaze with all the flips and slow come downs with my slim arms and legs but keeping my stomach from growling once I realized I had no snacks on this trip was the challenge that broke me.

Talia had high hopes of focusing and bee-lining it to the boss’s bedroom to switch some paper with codes on it but it all went sideways when the one and only showed up.

“ Talia.”

“Arron.”

“Always a pleasure.”

“Can’t say the same.”

Talia pushes pass Arron, ignoring his stupid smirk.

Arron always thought he had Talia under his spell with his blonde hair, brown eyes and strong jawline but he was quite mistaken. His personality won him the title of “Complete Asshole” in her eyes with much backed-up experience whenever she worked with him in the past.

“That’s alright, I know you’ve missed me.”

Ah. Crap.

I adjust my tie and watch as Aurel moves towards me. My palms are sweaty as I try to rub them gracefully on the front of my waistcoat.

This. Cannot. Be happening.

The mission was so simple when I was first instructed. Get into the damned gala, swap the codes to the vault, and avoid-

I failed. I failed. I failed.

Oh gods, I failed.

The Hades Society will hang me in the town square like they did to all the others. My worthlessness will be spoken of constantly through the next few weeks after my death. I might as well just kill mys-

“Why, Arthur,” Aurelius said in that smooth tone of his, “fancy seeing you here.”

I swear that voice calmed my brutal nerves, for I almost forgot what I had just done. Or maybe it was the way he said my name. Or maybe it was the way his suit hugged his lean frame.

Dammit. This wasn’t supposed to happen.

“Ah,” I said lamely, “you too Aurel.”

I brought my wine glass to my lips and took a rather large gulp of the sweet liquid, wishing it was stronger.

He watched my throat as I swallowed, and I gripped the stem of the glass tighter.

“Say,” he started, “I don’t think I’ve seen you since fourth year.” His face twisted into a sad smirk, and my stomache twisted right along with it. “When your parents had banned you from ever seei-“

“I-I should go,” I said hurriedly, for if he finished that sentence, I wouldnt be leaving for a long while.

Aurelius’s perfect eyebrows dipped a little, and I nervously tucked my red hair behind my ear.

“Stay.”

I wasn’t exactly sure wether it was a question, but the wine was starting to cloud my head enough that my common sense was dulled to an incoherent hum in the back of my mind.

So I nodded, my face no doubt as red as my hair.

Then before I knew it, my glass was pulled out of my hand, and I was being pulled towards the dance floor.

“Wait. Aurel. We can’t.”

He ignored my concerns, and brought me to the back corner of the room.

He then pulled me to him, and I forgot why I was concerned in the first place. We swayed a little. The music was a slow rhythm that wafted through the air like a pleasant smell. I pulled away from him enough to fully look at his face.

My breath caught. It has been a while since I have gotten the opportunity to see his face this close, and I wanted to savor the sight.

His eyes were closed, but I knew the world behind those eyelids all to well. Aurel’s perfectly cut blond hair and his long translucent eyelashes. His familiar straight nose had a new bump in it. Like it broke, but never quite healed right. I knew where he got it from. My father. I got scars the same day.

His eyes opened as if he could feel my gaze. He gave me a smirk, then dipped me. I felt blood rush to my head, then he pulled me up and I playfully hit his arm. He laughed, and then pulled away.

I felt cold without his heat, but then he grabbed my hand, and dragged me towards the door.

“Where are we going?” I ask him, my head still a little bit light from the dip.

Aurelius didn’t answer, instead dragging me towards the gardens.

When we reached the fountain, he let go of my hand and sat on the rim.

“Sit,” he ordered, patting the space next to him.

I sat. Then I turned to him.

“Do you remember when we first met?” Aurel asked me.

“Yes,” I told him. I remembered it clearly. We were on a cruise going to Santa Monica, and I was on an assassination mission. I killed the man, and then began to run away. Aurelius, this charming prince, ran into me and offered a handkerchief. I will forever remember his kindness.

“That was when I first realized that you were a Hadesean.”

I froze.

“How did you know about that?”

I swear my heartbeat could be audible from a mile away.

He smiled and brushed rusty hair out of my eyes. “It’s my job, darling.”

Darling. I haven’t heard him call me that in months.

I knew I should probably kill him, at least I should if I want to live, but I would die either way: by the society’s hand, or my own.

So I kissed him.

Then I felt a sharp pain in my abdomen as a roof sniper found their target.

“I love you,” I whispered into Aurel’s ear.

He held me close and whispered those sacred words back to me.

Then the darkness of cruel inevitablity found me.