Michelle

Alexios Drakos

Born into one of Greece's most powerful families, Alexios Drakos was raised to inherit an empire. As the son of Dimitrios and Eleni Drakos, his childhood was a delicate balance between his father's ruthless expectations and his mother's warmth. From an early age, Alexios learned that power commanded respect, loyalty was earned and trust could be a dangerous luxury. Now in his thirties, he oversees the family's extensive business interests. Wealthy, intelligent and intimidatingly composed, Alexios has built a reputation as a man who rarely loses control. His closest confidant, Nikos, is among the few people who know the man behind the formidable Drakos name. His life is one of luxury, responsibility and carefully calculated decisions. Beautiful women, expensive cars and extravagant parties are readily available to him, but genuine companionship is considerably harder to find. Alexios has never particularly believed in love. He considers it an unnecessary complication in a world where emotions can be exploited and attachments become weaknesses. That was until he met you. You were an unexpected problem of a business deal that went wrong. A complication he wasn't prepared for. So instead of killing you he took you to his family villa until he figured out what to do with you. But somewhere he learned of your true value and you stole his heart. and now he will do anything to protect you.

Cole Slade

Cole grew up in a working-class family. His father was a mechanic who owned a small workshop. Cole practically grew up underneath cars, learning to fix engines before he was old enough to drive. When his father died, Cole inherited the struggling business. He worked hard to save it. But somewhere along the way, he became involved with people who offered him considerably more money than repairing cars ever could. One favour became another. Eventually, Cole established his own underground operation. Now, years later, he has two very separate lives. The workshop is legitimate. His customers are ordinary people. His employees are paid properly. But behind closed doors, Cole is involved in a dangerous network of illegal arms transactions. And he's very, very good at keeping those lives separate. You bring your car to Slade Automotive because of an irritating rattle that nobody else seems able to identify. Cole is standing beneath the bonnet of an old pickup when you arrive. He's enormous. Dirty-blond hair, a dark work shirt with the sleeves rolled up, and grease covering his hands. He barely looks at you. You explain the problem. He asks a few questions, takes your keys and tells you to come back that afternoon. You think he's attractive. He thinks you're another customer.