“Don’t come near me!” Deviana’s voice echoed through the empty warehouse. Her hands trembled as she clutched the rusty iron pipe she’d found on the floor, sweat dripping down her temples. Her gaze was sharp despite the fear coursing through her body.

Four burly men, Leviana’s hired thugs, circled in from every direction. One of them let out a low chuckle.

“So bold, raising that pipe against us, Miss Deviana. Do you really think you can fight back?”

Deviana drew a deep breath, summoning every ounce of courage. “If I have to die, then at least I won’t die without a fight.”

The man in front of her flicked open...