“Took you long enough to return home,” a deep voice says from behind. “This isn’t how I like to run my business.”

Gasping, I instinctively pick up my father’s rifle and spin around, ready to fire a fatal shot in the intruder’s chest.

What the hell?

At the end of my barrel, a beautiful man in navy blue is smirking at me. His muscles are straining the fabric of his overcoat, and his deep blue eyes and perfectly carved jawline instantly confirm that he’s the most attractive man I’ve ever seen in my life.

And yet, despite the sudden flight of butterflies in my chest, the recognition ruins the view.

He’s G’aston, Mister Gabriel Aston.

The cockiest, most-self-absorbed bastard who owns almost every building in the village and thinks he’s entitled to whatever and whoever he wants.

I hold my finger over the trigger and narrow my eyes. “Who let you inside this house?”

“No one.” He smiles as he eyes the gun. “You may want to put that down before you make a fool of yourself and miss.”

“I never miss.” I tilt the barrel toward the glass jars on the window behind him. Pulling the trigger, I shatter the first one to pieces before refocusing my aim on his mouth.

“Get out.” I aim for his heart. “Now.”

Looking impressed, he stares at me for several seconds. Then he places his hand over the muzzle before gently prying the gun from my hands.

“This is a friendly visit.” He sets the rifle against the wall, still staring at me, making me wonder if Cinderella’s powder has worn off already.

“You can stop staring at my scars now,” I say. “It’s rude.”

“I don’t see any scars.” He tilts his head to the side. “I don’t see any imperfections at all…”

“Well, good.” I swallow, sliding a hand under my dress for my dagger. “Don’t make me ask you to leave again. I’ll be sure that you regret it.”

“I’m sure.” He doesn’t look the slightest bit threatened. “I’d like you to make me a glass of water now.”

“I’d like for you to walk away or disappear.”

“That wasn’t a request.”

“That’s exactly why I’m not getting it for you.”

Silence.

He looks me up and down, causing more butterflies to flutter in my chest.

Domineering and gorgeous, he steps closer, his eyes locked on mine. “Is there a reason why I’ve never seen you before?”

“Probably because I haven’t made any trips to Hell lately.”

“I’m fairly certain that I’m going to heaven when I die.”

“Would you like me to speed up that process so you can find out?”

He lets out a low laugh that sends tingles up my spine. “I’m here to see Isabelle. Where is she?”

“She’s not interested in you.”

“What about Mr. Arwyn?”

“He’ll entertain your affection as long as you’re willing to pay for it. Leave a check.”

“This is about a conversation we need to have; he’s expecting me.” He looks beyond amused. “Who are you?”