Warning: Mature Content (R18) - This excerpt contains explicit content. After losing her mother, Natalia has developed deep feelings for her stepfather. News of his engagement to another woman and her stepbrother discovering her secret heighten the tension. Amidst the secrecy surrounding her relationship with her stepcousin, Natalia's guard, Edward, makes a bold declaration: "Desperate to be remembered, I promise to bring you such intense joy that you'll forget about my brother entirely." Zak, sharing a long history with Natalia, confesses his love: "We've always been there for each other, and I need to tell you...I love you." Lucien is determined to win her heart: "I'll go to any lengths to make you mine. Just a little more time, please." Reiner, ever the devoted bodyguard, vows, "I'll always shield you, even from the inner conflicts you face." Please note: This story does not involve incest; all male love interests are unrelated to the female protagonist. The cover photo is owned by me, and permission must be sought for reproduction.
"
