Lies. We use them to misdirect, gain power over others, and even protect those whom we love. Sometimes, we even use them to convince ourselves of cold, hard truths. We can’t help it. Lying is a part of who we are.

Matteo

43, Owner of La Maison de M rich, powerful, keeper of secrets. Oh, and surrogate father to a mansion full of exotic dancing man-children.

Ill be the first to admit that Im no saint. I deal in the pleasures of the flesh. Wealthy men come to La Maison, searching for a good time—a place where they can indulge in their fantasies away from the judgemental eye of society. My private club provides them with that. So what if I use the opportunity to add to my fortune? Like I said, I never claimed to be a saint.

Perhaps hes my punishment. Ares. The annoying cockroach who keeps resurfacing in my life. Just the mention of his name infuriates me. The man has no manners or class and does everything he can to get under my skin! So why does my heart keep begging for more?

Ares

47, International arms smuggler, purveyor of exotic goods, and devilishly handsome in that rough and scary kind of way

Im wearing him down. No matter how many times Matteo tells me that he hates me and never wants to see me again, I know that deep down, its all just for show. Really, he wants me. Hes stubborn and proud and likes to pretend that he doesnt have feelings for me. But if that were true, why does he keep turning to me whenever he needs help?

I know I hurt him, and if he ever found out the truth, hed never speak to me again. But I cant let him go. He means too much to me, and Ill never stop loving him. No matter how many times he threatens my life or tells me to rot in hell, its simply his version of flattery.