Lexy Cross wiped the sweat from her brow, her muscles burning as she pushed herself on the treadmill. The weightlifting room at the local gym was her sanctuary—a place where she could escape the chaos of her life. But today, even the rhythmic pounding of her sneakers couldn't drown out the thoughts that plagued her.
Trevor Cain—the smug detective who seemed to relish in her misery—had discovered her secret. Jake and Devon—the two men she loved—were together. Her heart twisted at the revelation. She'd kept their relationship hidden, fearing judgment and rejection. But now, Trevor held the upper hand, and Lexy knew she had no choice.
As if summoned by her thoughts, Trevor's voice whispered in her ear, sending a shiver down her spine. "Alexandra."
She jumped, nearly losing her balance on the treadmill. Trevor stood there, his smirk evident even in the dim light. His eyes bore into hers, and she hated how he seemed to see through every layer of her defenses.
"What do you want, Cain?" Lexy snapped, her breath uneven.
He stepped closer, invading her personal space. "You're in quite the predicament, aren't you? Jake and Devon—the forbidden love triangle. And now, I hold the cards."
Lexy clenched her fists. "What's your game, Trevor?"
His fingers brushed her shoulder, and she flinched. "Simple. You owe me. I won't expose your secret, but in return, you'll do whatever I ask."
She scoffed. "And what if I refuse?"
Trevor leaned in, his lips dangerously close to her ear. "Then Jake and Devon's world crumbles. Their careers, their reputations—I have enough evidence to ruin them both."
Lexy's mind raced. She'd fought so hard to protect them, to keep their love intact. But Trevor was relentless, and she was backed into a corner.
"Sasha," she whispered, using the nickname only Jake knew. "You can't do this."
His eyes gleamed with triumph. "Watch me."
They stood face-to-face, the tension thick between them. Lexy's heart pounded, torn between loyalty and survival. Trevor had always been a predator, but now he had her pinned.
"You're mine now," he said, his voice low. "No more secrets. No more defiance."
Lexy's voice wavered. "What do you want?"
His lips brushed her cheek, and she fought the urge to recoil. "Everything. Your loyalty, your skills—your unwavering obedience."
She took a deep breath. "Fine. But promise me one thing."
Trevor raised an eyebrow. "What?"
"Protect Jake and Devon. Keep them safe."
His smirk widened. "Oh, I will. But remember, Alexandra, you're dancing with the devil now."
And so, Lexy Cross—the woman torn between love and duty—made her choice. As they left the weightlifting room, Trevor's grip on her tightened. She'd play his game, but she'd fight to keep her heart intact. For Jake. For Devon. And for the fragile hope that redemption awaited them all.
