Dark Desires

chapter 16

  Melania

It’s almost 8:45 PM when I step out of my room, adjusting the sleek black, sleeveless dress that clings to my figure, shimmering faintly with glitter. The dress feels bold—perhaps too bold—but I let it be.

As I make my way down the hall, Oliver passes by, his eyes narrowing slightly in surprise. "Where are you headed, sis? It’s late, and I’m fairly certain that’s not the usual attire for prom night."

I offer a casual shrug. "Actually, I’m skipping prom. Maeve and I are having a girls' night out—possibly a sleepover afterward. I probably won’t be home until morning."

He smiles faintly. "Well, stay safe."

I wave as I step toward the door. "Bye, Oliver."

Slipping out quietly, I avoid drawing further attention from anyone else in the house. Moments later, Gabriel’s car pulls into the driveway. Maeve is practically buzzing with excitement in the backseat, while Anderson sits up front next to Gabriel.

"Hey, Mel! Nice to see you. You look stunning," Anderson greets with a charming smile as I slide into the backseat.

I smile politely. "Hi, thank you. I appreciate it."

Maeve chatters animatedly about the latest gossip circulating around the college, filling the car ride with lighthearted banter. The drive feels longer than expected, but finally, we arrive at our destination.

As I step out of the car, I pause, glancing around at the luxury vehicles parked nearby and the impeccably dressed crowd lingering outside. Wealth radiates from every corner—older men with younger women, draped in designer attire, entering through the grand entrance.

Anderson flashes a pass to the security guard, who nods and steps aside, allowing us entry.

The moment we step inside, I’m taken aback by the sheer scale of the place. It’s magnificent—glimmering chandeliers hang from high ceilings, and the room hums with the quiet sounds of gambling and hushed conversations. The scent of expensive vodka lingers in the air, mingling with the distant echo of soft jazz and flashing lights from various games being played.

Maeve leans in, whispering discreetly, "I need some alone time with Gabe. I’ve booked a suite for us upstairs… please say you’ll be fine on your own."

I sigh internally but nod. "Don’t worry about me. Enjoy yourselves."

Without hesitation, she gently tugs Gabriel by the arm, leading him toward the suite area. I glance around to find that Anderson has disappeared as well, likely engaged in some business affair.

The music shifts—louder now, pulsing through the grand hall. Feeling the beat, I find my way to the dance floor, joining a crowd of strangers who move in sync with the rhythm. I let the music take over, swaying my hips to the intoxicating sound, allowing myself to forget the world for a moment.

I feel eyes on me—sharp, lingering—but I brush it off. Tonight, it’s just me and the music.

DAMON
This club has always been one of my favorites – a discreet and luxurious venue where deals can be made away from prying eyes. Tonight, I’m here to meet Fred, a trusted associate and valuable partner in my underground network. His role in the supply of weapons has proven essential to our operations.

We sit in a quiet corner, discussing the latest shipment and ensuring every detail regarding the supply chain is in order. The conversation flows smoothly until our business is concluded. As we wrap up, I catch the murmur of one of Fred’s guards, his eyes fixed on the dancefloor.

"She’s stunning… Look at the way she moves. I’m definitely taking her home tonight."

His words pique my attention, and I instinctively glance in the direction he’s pointing. My eyes narrow the moment I spot her.

Melania.

The sight of her sends a jolt through me—there she is, on the dancefloor, wearing a black dress that clings to her curves with unsettling precision. The shimmering fabric catches the low lights, drawing far too much attention from the crowd of men around her. Her movements are fluid, effortlessly in sync with the beat of the music, but the way she dances… it’s dangerous.

Heat rises in my chest—anger, possessiveness. What the hell is she doing here?

Fred bids his farewell, but I barely acknowledge him. My focus is locked on her. Without another thought, I make my way through the throng of people, weaving between groups until I reach the dancefloor.

As I approach, I waste no time. My hands find her waist, pulling her firmly against me. Her body stiffens in surprise, but I lean in, pressing a lingering kiss against the soft curve of her neck, making my presence unmistakable.

She’s mine. And tonight, I’m making sure everyone knows it.