Chapter 1

After scandalous photos of Julian Maxwell, the scion of a powerful New York family, and his new girlfriend, Lily, leaked, everyone was waiting for me to make Lily disappear -- or worse.

So, at the cruise party, he made a grand declaration, protecting his new love.

"Anyone who dares touch a hair on Lily's head, I'll break their hand."

I wasn't looking to settle scores with Lily. All I wanted was the key to the safe containing my mother's ashes, as compensation for his infidelity.

Julian seemed conflicted, but Lily already had the key.

She tossed it into a snake pit, specially prepared to satisfy the wealthy guests' twisted amusement.

"Seraphina, Julian said all the cards and house keys are mine now. If you really want this key, go pick it up yourself."

In the snake pit, dozens of snakes writhed together, flicking their tongues, eerie and disgusting.

They all thought I wouldn't dare.

But I didn't hesitate; I plunged my hand straight into the pit.

Julian's expression was grim, and a flicker of panic crossed his eyes as he watched me.

Even as my arm bled from the bites, I didn't flinch.

No one knew that at the same time the scandalous photos were exposed, I'd received a message from my father:

"Bring your mother, and I'll give you a chance to come home. You have one day. Miss it, and our father-daughter relationship is over."