Dance with Shadows~

Episode 3: A Dance with Shadows

Evelyn took a slow step back, her fingers gripping the edge of the balcony railing. The city lights stretched endlessly behind her, a sea of golden reflections shimmering in the night. But at this moment, all she could focus on was the man standing before her.

Leon Valenciaga.

Tall, imposing, and dangerous. The weight of his gaze pinned her in place, his golden eyes reflecting the soft glow of the gala lights. He had always been a ghost of the underworld—whispered about in dark corners, feared by those who crossed him. And yet, here he was, standing in front of her as if they were old acquaintances.

“I don’t know what you mean,” Evelyn repeated, her voice softer this time.

Leon let out a quiet chuckle, shaking his head. “Lying doesn’t suit you, princess.”

Evelyn stiffened at the nickname. It wasn’t the first time someone had called her that, but coming from him, it felt different. Almost mocking. Almost intimate.

He leaned in slightly, just enough to make her nervous. “The letter. The black rose. Someone wants to bring the past back to life. And somehow, you’re right in the middle of it.”

Evelyn’s breath hitched. The letter? He had received one too?

For a split second, panic flashed in her eyes, but she was quick to mask it. “You think I have something to do with that?” she asked, tilting her chin up defiantly.

Leon studied her carefully. She was good—trained, even. Most people crumbled under his gaze, but she held her ground. Still, there was something in her eyes. A flicker of something she wasn’t saying.

“I think you know more than you’re letting on,” Leon said, voice smooth as silk.

Evelyn turned away, gripping the railing tighter. “I don’t involve myself in my family’s affairs, Mr. Valenciaga. I suggest you do the same.”

Leon smirked at her attempt to push him away. “That’s the thing, Evelyn. The Everleighs and I? We’re already involved.”

Before she could respond, the music shifted inside the ballroom, signaling the start of the formal waltz. A waiter passed by, carrying a tray of champagne glasses, and Leon smoothly plucked one from the tray.

“If you don’t want to talk,” he said, swirling the glass lazily, “then dance with me instead.”

Evelyn blinked. “Excuse me?”

Leon downed the champagne in one effortless motion, then stepped closer, his body radiating confidence. “You heard me.”

Evelyn hesitated. The last thing she needed was to be seen dancing with him—the most notorious man in Velmora’s underworld. But before she could refuse, Leon reached out, catching her hand in his.

A shiver ran through her at his touch.

“Just one dance,” he murmured, his voice a low challenge. “Unless you’re afraid.”

Evelyn’s pride flared. She was an Everleigh—she never backed down. Taking a deep breath, she lifted her chin. “Fine.”

Leon led her onto the dance floor with an easy grace, his presence commanding. As soon as his hand found the curve of her waist, Evelyn knew she had made a mistake.

Because dancing with Leon Valenciaga was dangerous.

And not just because of who he was.

Because of the way he made her feel.

—

To be continued…

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