Scorched Shadows

At Sterling University, Liam Sterling, a secretive heir, and Lucia Moreau, a defiant scholarship student, enter a fake relationship to salvage their futures. But as mob debts and family trauma unravel their lies, their explosive chemistry blurs hate and desire. Forced to trust each other, they risk everything—until love becomes their most dangerous gamble. Lucia(backing Liam against a wall, fists in his shirt): “You think you’re the only one who knows how to lie? I’ve pretended not to want this since the day we met.” Liam(smirking, hands sliding to her waist): “Prove it.” She kisses him, brutal and claiming. He spins her around, pinning her wrists above her head. Liam(against her lips): “Still hate me?” Lucia(breathless): “More than ever.” Liam (biting her neck): “Liar.”