Chapter 1
Chapter 1: The Lens and the Shadow
The massive iron gates of the mansion creaked open like the jaws of a beast, ready to swallow her whole. It wasn't just a house; it was a fortress of marble and glass overlooking the edge of London, isolated from the noise of humanity.
Alexander ushered her inside the vast foyer. His touch was light, yet it felt like a brand of ownership. Crystal chandeliers shimmered above, but Eva didn't feel the luxury; she felt the walls closing in on her.
"This is your home for the next 365 days," Alexander said, shedding his rain-soaked coat.
Eva turned to him, her eyes a storm of anger and fear. "You don’t own me, Alexander. The contract is for my family's safety, not for me to be your servant."
He approached her with agonizing slowness. He stopped directly in front of her, so close she had to tilt her head to meet his storm-grey eyes. "A servant? No, Eva… a servant can be replaced. You are an 'investment' now. And my investments have rules."
He pulled a folded
