Jade Bulgarelli kept his chin high, his pace firm and his expression blank as he marched out of Castle Manor. Uncle Badr's refusal to accept Jade, yet again, would have been devastating if not for Chas Abaddon.

Lovely, sweet Chas who looked like an angel while hiding the skills of a spy and assassin behind his baby-face. Going to stay with Chas was a respite from Uncle Badr's abuse.

Until it turned into so much more. Because Chas offered Jade not just escape. He offered freedom, hope and, if Jade was lucky, love.