My mind flashes back to six months ago… the wedding.

My mother was glowing more than usual, finally married to a man with enough money to keep her in silk for a lifetime. I was standing by the bar in a dress that was definitely too short and too tight for a "family" event.

I’ve always been that girl—the one who wears her sensuality like a second skin, unapologetic and bold.

Then I saw Max. He was standing in the corner, a glass of bourbon in his hand, looking like he wanted to burn the whole reception hall down. Our eyes met, and that was it. He saw exactly who...