Chapter 204 Nia

• 'Let go,' she hissed, yanking free with more force than intended. The movement drew a few glances from nearby guests, but the music covered it. Nia's heart hammered, a mix of fury and that damn flutter she couldn't shake. His touch lingered like a brand, skin tingling where he'd been.
• Vardo straightened, smirking as if he'd won something. 'Feisty as ever. Run along, then. But remember, sweetheart—shadows like me don't fade easy.' He turned, melting back into the crowd with a swagger that made her want to scream.
• Nia exhaled shakily, rubbing her wrist. Asshole. She scanned for Vince, spotting him across the room, now dancing with a diplomat's wife. The sight twisted something in her gut—jealousy? No, just the contrast. Vince was light, approachable; Vardo was a storm, crashing in uninvited. She needed to get away, clear her head.