The Red Lotus pulsed with neon lights and heavy bass. A playground for criminals, corrupt officials, and thrill-seekers who didn't ask questions.
Shade walked through the doors, blending into the crowd. His suit was swapped for a fitted black shirt and jeans, but the predatory gleam in his eyes remained.
He spotted his target near the VIP lounge. A high-ranking Vulture thug.
A sultry voice purred behind him. "Didn't expect to see you here."
He turned.
Jade.
His ex-lover.
She leaned against the bar, emerald dress hugging every dangerous curve. Her smirk was equal parts amusement and warning.
"I could say the same," he replied, keeping his tone unreadable.
She took a slow sip of her drink, eyes never leaving his. "You look good for a dead man."
"Maybe I am dead."
Jade chuckled. "Then I guess I'm looking at a ghost."
A sudden commotion erupted from the VIP section. Sable's men had spotted him.
Shade sighed. "Hold that thought."
Jade smirked. "Oh, I'm not going anywhere."
Then the bullets started flying.