Chapter 16 The Invitation & Unspoken Challenge

The luxury hotel bar was dimly lit, casting soft golden hues over the polished marble countertops and deep leather seats. A low hum of conversation filled the space, blending with the smooth jazz playing in the background. Sienna Locke adjusted the strap of her dress as she slid onto the barstool, crossing one leg over the other with deliberate slowness. She was fully aware of the eyes on her—particularly the sharp, possessive gaze of Adrian Blackwood, seated a few feet away, watching her like a predator who had just spotted his prey.