You may now kill the Bride

love and war

Lexi's heels clicked against the marble floor as she left her uncle's study, her mind whirling with unanswered questions. Should she risk everything for a chance at the truth, or secure her family's future, no matter the cost to her own happiness? The cool afternoon air did little to clear her head as she stepped onto the sidewalk.

"Lexi." A low, smooth voice called her name. Reg emerged from the sleek black car idling at the curb, a charming smile on his lips. "I was in the neighborhood. How about lunch?"

Lexi hesitated, her instincts screaming at her to refuse. But Reg's eyes crinkled at the corners, his gaze warm. He reached for her hand, his touch sending a spark of electricity through her. Maybe this was the chance she needed - a glimpse into his world, a chance to uncover the secrets he kept hidden.

"Okay," she agreed, her voice barely above a whisper. Reg's smile widened as he helped her into the car, his fingers lingering on hers. The door thudded shut behind her, enveloping her in the scent of rich leather and something faintly spicy. Reg's cologne.

As the car glided through the city streets, Reg chatted easily about everything and nothing. His words painted a picture of a perfect future, one filled with lavish parties and exotic vacations. Lexi found herself laughing, her doubts momentarily forgotten. Maybe she was overreacting. Maybe Reg was exactly who he seemed to be - a man in love, eager to start their life together.

But as the car turned onto a quiet side street, the buildings growing taller and more imposing, a flicker of unease ignited in her chest. Where were they going? And why did Reg's smile seem to hold a hint of something more...predatory?

The car slowed, purring to a stop in front of a nondescript building. Reg turned to her, his eyes gleaming with an unreadable emotion. "Welcome to my office, Lexi," he murmured, his voice low and husky. "I think it's time you saw where your future husband works."

Lexi's heart pounded against her ribs as Reg led her from the car, his hand a possessive weight on the small of her back. The building lobby was sleek, modern, the only adornment a large silver logo - Montgomery Industries. Reg's fingers tightened on hers, pulling her towards the elevators.

"My office is on the top floor," he said, his voice echoing off the marble walls. "The view is...breathtaking."

Lexi's mouth went dry as the elevator doors slid shut, trapping her inside. She was alone with Reg, hurtling towards a destination unknown. And she couldn't shake the feeling she was walking into a trap.