In the opulent heart of the Ruby Republic, Evangeline Hightower, the ambitious granddaughter of a ruthless business tycoon, finds herself entangled in a high-stakes game of power and ambition. Driven by the desire to inherit her grandfather's vast empire, she's willing to risk everything, even breaking the cardinal rules instilled in her from a young age.

Her quest leads her to the enigmatic Lyra, the infamous Night Enchantress, a woman rumored to have toppled empires with her cunning and allure. Lyra offers Evangeline a chance to secure her legacy, but at a price that challenges Evangeline's morals and tests the limits of her ambition.

"Now, before we begin, I have to ask." Lyra leans back, somehow looking every inch a queen in the vaguely cramped backseat. "How far are you willing to go?"


I don't even have to think about it. "As far as it takes." I must win, and I will win, no matter the cost.


Chapter 2 - Evangeline