ESTHER

The elevator doors opened straight into their penthouse and I stepped out clutching my bag like it could save me. The place smelled expensive. Warm wood, faint cologne, and something darker underneath that made my stomach tighten.

Asher was waiting.

My stepbrother leaned against the island in the open kitchen, arms crossed over his chest. Twenty-seven. Way too good-looking for someone I was technically related to. His eyes dragged over me slowly, from my white sundress down to my bare legs and back up again.

“Esther,” he said, voice low. “You came.”

“Didn’t really have a choice,” I muttered, trying to sound casual. My fingers twisted the strap of...