The chapter opens with Elena trying to regain control—of her thoughts, her emotions, and the way Nicolas Russo has started to infiltrate both. She's determined to keep her distance, to remind herself that he's her sister's fiancé, a Made Man, and completely off-limits. But the universe—or maybe fate—has other plans.
At a family gathering, Elena and Nicolas are once again thrown into the same orbit. The air between them crackles with unspoken tension. Every glance feels like a challenge, every word like a dare. Nicolas, ever the enigma, seems to enjoy pushing her buttons. He's calm, unreadable, but there's a sharpness to his attention that makes Elena feel like she's being studied—and maybe even hunted.
We get more insight into Elena's inner world. She's not just the "Sweet Abelli" everyone sees. She's restless, curious, and increasingly drawn to the danger Nicolas represents. Her thoughts betray her again and again—lingering on the curve of his mouth, the way he moves, the way he makes her feel seen and cornered all at once.
Meanwhile, Nicolas remains maddeningly composed. He doesn't flirt, not exactly. But his words are laced with double meanings, and his presence is impossible to ignore. He's not just a man—he's a storm wrapped in a tailored suit.
By the end of the chapter, Elena realizes something terrifying: she's not just attracted to Nicolas Russo. She's fascinated by him. And fascination, in their world, is a dangerous thing.
Want to keep going with Chapter 4? Or maybe explore how Elena's relationship with her sister complicates everything even more? I