[Shadows of Chicago 01] • Hammered · A Shadows of Chicago Novel

Hammer

ham·mer ˈhamər/

verb

past tense: hammered; past participle: hammered

1.hit or beat (something) with a hammer or similar object.

2. informal attack or criticize forcefully and relentlessly.

Stone

Fighting has been engrained—hammered into me. It’s something I know all about, yet wish I knew nothing at all. For the last seventeen of my twenty-seven years, hurt has fueled my desire in the ring. But I want better. I’ve paid my dues. I want far away from this life. I thought I finally had my chance and then corruption threatened to take it away. I’m no stranger to challenge; it just makes me more determined to come out on top—of my world and her. She thinks we’re from opposites sides of the track, and she’s right. But we’re both blinded by pain, and I see hers. I’ve fought plenty of fights and Lydia Norberg may prove to be my strongest opponent yet.

Lydia

I craved a man’s hands on me for no other reason than pure, unadulterated lust. No hidden expectations of more, just pleasure, anything to take my mind off my reality and send me into orbit around a brighter place. So I took a chance by attending an Elite party—young professionals looking for sex, no strings attached. At first glance, they all looked pretty boring until I saw him. I only knew him as Stone, no last names, no personal information exchanged; those were the rules. Little did I know, he represents everything I desire and everything I fear.