The threat hung heavily in the morning air like a dark cloud. Victoria Vane did not make idle threats. When the matriarch of the Vane empire promised a corporate buyout, she meant every single word.

Clara stood tall on the courtyard gravel, refusing to let the old woman see her sweat. She watched as Victoria turned around, stepped back into the black limousine, and slammed the heavy door shut. The luxury vehicle glided silently down the driveway, leaving the Vane brothers and Clara standing in the crisp morning light.

"Do not let her words get to you," Lucian said immediately, stepping close and wrapping a strong arm around Clara's waist....