Lianna avoided Lucien Blackwood for three days.
Not because she was afraid—
But because she knew exactly how dangerous his silence could be.
The entire executive floor felt different. Guards moved with sharper vigilance. Assistants whispered more than usual. Even the air seemed heavier, as if waiting for something to snap.
And then—
It did.
Her office door opened without a knock.
Lucien stepped inside.
Lianna didn't look up immediately. "If this is about the elevator—"
"You kissed me," he said calmly.
Her fingers stilled.
"You know it was an accident."
Lucien closed the door behind him with a soft click.
"So was my patience," he replied.
She finally raised her eyes.
He stood there like a predator that had tasted blood and decided he liked it. His gaze wasn't cold today.
It was burning.
"You've been avoiding me," he continued.
"That's a strange accusation from a man who owns half the city."
Lucien walked closer, stopping just short of touching her.
"That kiss changed the rules," he said quietly.
"No," Lianna countered, standing. "It reminded me why I left."
His hand slammed against the desk beside her—fast, controlled, inches from her skin.
"You left because you were weak then," he said lowly. "You're not weak now."
She swallowed, refusing to step back.
"Don't confuse strength with submission."
Lucien studied her for a long moment.
Then—he smiled.
Not cruel.
Satisfied.
"Good," he said. "Because I don't want obedience anymore."
Her heart skipped.
"I want choice."
The words unsettled her more than any threat.
"I'm hosting a private charity gala tomorrow night," Lucien continued. "You'll attend. With me."
"That's not a request."
"No," he agreed. "It's a warning."
She folded her arms. "What happens if I refuse?"
Lucien leaned down, voice brushing her ear.
"Then everyone will learn exactly how important you are to me."
Lianna stiffened.
That wasn't protection.
That was exposure.
Lucien straightened and walked away, pausing at the door.
"Oh—and Lianna?"
She didn't answer.
"That kiss?" he said softly.
"It made you dangerous to every man in this city."
The door closed.
Lianna sank back into her chair, pulse racing.
Because she knew what the gala meant.
Spotlights. Enemies. Traps disguised as smiles.
And Lucien Blackwood had just announced—
She was no longer invisible.