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From the Author:
“Ladies, Gentlemen, and Short Story Romantic Suspense/Thriller & Romantic Action-Adventure Lovers… I have hit my writing and storytelling zenith. The sky is the limit, from here. Safe to say – My Writing Pen Is On Fire!“
https://youtu.be/cpyMhSh5ef4?si=fzKRt3s6nrjggsBg
+18 Years Old or Older —- Rate “M” for Mature Audiences
Blurb
Progue Prometheus’ zest for life and dedicated service is pulse-pounding. The romantic steam and action adventure between him and Elle left us damn near breathless. Of course, craving to be Elle, ourselves. (Or… at the very least… a fly on the wall).
In this thrilling tale, Sergei Romanoff, a half-Russian, half-Czech operative with unparalleled tradecraft in the world of espionage, finds himself entangled in a web of danger and desire. Working as a double agent for both the US and UK governments, he is a man torn between loyalty and his primal carnal instincts.
But when he meets Elle, a fellow DNI agent known as The Iron Gazelle, Sergei’s world is turned upside down. Elle is a formidable force, an alluring and lethal beauty who matches Sergei’s skills in every way. As they join forces, their chemistry ignites a passion that transcends the boundaries of their dangerous profession.
Together, Sergei and Elle embark on a high-stakes mission that takes them to the edge of their abilities. With each step, they uncover a sinister plot involving a Serbian faction seeking revenge for Sergei’s disruption of their illicit nuclear weapon trade with enemies of NATO. The clock is ticking as they race against time to rescue Elle from the clutches of their merciless adversaries.
In a primal death match that pushes their limits, Sergei must confront not only the physical threats surrounding them but also the vulnerability of his own heart. Will their love be enough to survive the treacherous world of espionage and bring them out alive? Or will their passions become their downfall? With heart-pounding action, scorching romance, and intense suspense, Prometheus will keep you on the edge of your seat from the first page to the last. Prepare yourself for a thrilling adventure where loyalty and love collide, and where survival hangs by a thread. Will Sergei and Elle conquer the odds, or will they become casualties in a dangerous game of international espionage?
INTRODUCTION
Introduction
Sergei Romanoff is a man of mystery, his chiseled features, and a piercing set of steel blue eyes captivating all who encounter him. In their depths lies an uncanny darkness and cauldron of secrets. Known for his unmatched tradecraft in the field, Sergei operates as a double agent for both the UK and the US, working tirelessly to protect and uphold their vested interests. Behind his stoic exterior lies a heart that beats for Elle, a brilliant field agent, and counterpart also assigned to NATO, representing the interest of the DNI, NSC, and DHS of the US. Total firebrand operative, in this former agent’s opinion!
Their clandestine romance ignites passion and desire, blending seamlessly with their shared mission to maintain global stability. However, when a rogue Serbian faction seeks revenge after Sergei thwarts their sinister plot, Elle is taken hostage. In an instant, Sergei’s world crumbles, his unwavering loyalty to his countries eclipsed by his fierce love for Elle. An absolute no-no was duly written within the Dark Agent Intel training manuals. Yet, rules are timelessly broken…repeatedly!
As Sergei embarks on a perilous journey to rescue Elle, he must navigate a web of intrigue, betrayal, and dangerous liaisons. From high-stakes heists to heart-pounding chases, each chapter propels Sergei closer to his goal, while igniting a blazing fire of desire and passion within him. Along the way, he will encounter unexpected allies, and formidable enemies, and confront the limits of his own morality.
Mr. Rogue Prometheus has set the stage for Elle and the entire spy world on an enthralling adventure. Which explores the complexities of love, loyalty, and sacrifice in a world where danger lurks around every corner. Will Sergei’s unparalleled tradecraft and unwavering determination be enough to save Elle? Brace yourself for a rollercoaster ride of heart-pounding action, scorching romance, and pulse-pounding suspense as Sergei embarks on a mission that will change the course of their lives forever.
ACT – ONE
Eastern Europe Winter 2018….
Ready yourselves to step into the clandestine and dark world of “Prague Prometheus”? Brace yourself for a wild ride of action, romance, and danger, where the line between ally and enemy is so blurred and the stakes have never been higher, that all Eastern Europe will become nothing short of scorched earth! Both literally and practically.
Chapter 1: TRACING THROUGH the ALPS
The cold wind whistled through the narrow mountain pass, cutting through the crisp air with an icy edge. Mother Nature had taken fury to the thick air, and early morning mist. It was so serene. But an unsuspecting peaceful reprieve, as well. An invisible psychological asset and assist that any double-agent welcomed, with open arms. Rogue agent, Sergei Romanoff leaned back in his black convertible, feeling the chill seep into his tired aching bones. He had just completed a dangerous mission on behalf of UK intelligence, and now he was finally returning home and secret safe-house to Prague. A mission of which he barely made it out alive! Home beckoned his fried brain and soul. “God I’ve missed this fucking view.” He yelped into his vehicle’s interior. “Just what I fucking need… for fuck’s sake!” Pressing his foot firmly against the accelerator. He couldn’t get back to the country he so endeared and loved fast enough. Prague is a city of Romanesque and Baroque era culture. Because his former mission’s memory began to taunt and tear at his very being. Nearly splicing the pit of his stomach into bloodied mush. Thank God, his tracing through the Alps would put everything he’d experience on his last mission to rest, as he raced furiously towards his next mission and duty! Fucking tradecraft at its best.
Maneuvering and swirling through the winding roads of the Alps, as if he were a drunken sailor reverting home for convalescent leave from painstaking internal injuries, the agent began to slowly lose his bearings and focus. Sergei couldn’t help but let the rag top down on his convertible. The exhilarating rush of wind tousled his dark hair, momentarily distracting him from the weariness that had settled deep within his tired muscles. But just as he was about to lose himself in the freedom of the open road, a series of beeps emanated from the dashboard, jolting him back into the moment and reality. “Ohh… boy” … he resounded into the brisk wind. His words were carried away by the mist and air. Nearly at the speed of sound. Sergei put the peddle to the metal at nearly ninety miles per hour! It was on.
Sergei reached for the phone nestled in the center console and glanced at the caller ID. It was a number he didn’t recognize, but the urgency in the message was unmistakable. “Report to NATO headquarters immediately,” the voice on the other end commanded. Sergei’s heart skipped a beat. “Are you muther- fuckers serious” … the agent yelled while pumping the shit out of his breaks? It’s a real damn wonder he didn’t careen into the side of one of those mountain peaks! The back wheels of his convertible spew clouds of smoke, from the burning rubber. The stench was exhilarating! Simultaneously, turns his masculine member into a hot rod of near steel. His mind really began reeling, by this point.
He reluctantly pulled over to the side of the road, the majestic Alps looming above him, their peaks shrouded in a veil of mist and secrets. The serenity of the surroundings seemed to mock the turmoil brewing within him. The remnants of his last mission, the blood on his hands from the dogfight with the Serbian goons gone total rogue, dried against his skin as a stark reminder of the dangers he had faced. “Um getting too damn old for this fucking shit” … the agent murmured, as he slowly began wiping the dried blood with moistened towelettes. “This is shit for new, young, and hungrier recruits!” He scoffed firmly, via his thick Czech accent. “I need a damn desk job… for shit’s sake!” Eyes fluttering angrily in the brisk and cold morning mist.
Slumping back into his seat, Sergei took a deep breath, the crisp mountain air filling his lungs. His mind raced, analyzing the implications of the call. What could be so urgent that they required his immediate presence? What new mission awaited him at NATO headquarters? Either way, the agent swirled that damn convertible around, as if it were cornering on rails. Trapping back through the Alps headed to France. Bloodied body, guts, and all!
Albeit a fucked-up ass moment… on not. That damn agent wouldn’t ever belay the order. Not in a fucking million! Once his bearings were dressed-right-dressed, he was on it. “You’ve been through worse, Sergei,” he muttered to himself, trying to quell the rising anxiety within him. He had become a master of self-reassurance, a necessary skill in his line of work. With each mission, he had honed his abilities, both physical and mental, to withstand the pressures of his high-stakes life. Oblivious to the fact that this next mission was slowly taking on a life of its own. The Alpha-Male/Dom within Sergei needed to poise and ready itself to knuckle up and face the oncoming brain-fuck, awaiting him in Brussels. Nonetheless, his ass was clueless as hell. This next mission would be one of two things. His kryptonite… or rock of Gibraltar. Plain and simple. Reality… can be such a bitch.
As the engine of his convertible purred softly, Sergei’s thoughts drifted back to his early days in the intelligence service. A young recruit with fire in his eyes, he had undergone grueling training, transforming himself into a force to be reckoned with. Now, years later, his experience and expertise made him a highly valued asset to the geo-global governments across the globe.
But with each successful mission, Sergei had discovered that victory came at a price. The shadows of the past cast long, dark shapes over his present, and the sacrifices he had made haunted his dreams. Delving his psyche into a dark uncharted abyss, sometimes. Yet, at the same time, it enhances Sergei’s tradecraft skills and dark passions to fold, to unimaginable new heights! Unfortunate and unintended vicious mental and emotional cycles. He’d left behind so many valued and endearing loved ones, lifelong friendships severed by the relentless pursuits of justice. Needling and taunting his spirit, every time. Loneliness had become his constant companion. Leaving an unintended gaping hole within his carnal and primal prowess. Mind and soul gripping, as hell for any field operative.
Shaking off the memories, Sergei focused on the road ahead. His destination beckoned, demanding his undivided attention. No time to feel sorry for himself, or tangle with regret. He’s been beckoned by the highest authority. His ass had to answer the call. “Get your ass in gear” … he yelled with vigor and determination. “Duty calls… no time to fall on the fucking knife now!” That was it. Mr. Prague Prometheus was back in focus. The journey through the mountains seemed interminable, each curve and bend prolonging his anticipation. The Alpine’s beauty and majestic scenery that had once captivated him now felt like an obstacle, an unyielding barrier between him and his mission. Surreal reality checks in inside this double-agent’s mental sphere.
Hours turned into minutes, and finally, Sergei arrived at NATO headquarters. The imposing building rose before him, a symbol of power and authority. Taking a moment to compose himself, he stepped out of the car, his eyes scanning the surroundings with an unwavering vigilance. Before moving forward toward the majestic building. Which, in his opinion, was as audacious as it was intimidating. Journeying towards its special entrance for secret agents like himself, with his semi-hard-on. Men…eye roll.
Inside, the halls echoed with hushed voices and hurried footsteps. He navigated the labyrinthine corridors until he reached a nondescript door marked “Op Sect 91.” Taking a deep breath, he pushed it open and stepped into a room buzzing with activity.
Sergei Romanoff made his way through the bustling corridors of NATO’s special complexes and buildings, his thoughts consumed by the day’s tasks. As an intelligence agent, he was used to navigating through the labyrinth of classified information and covert operations, but today, his mind was preoccupied with something entirely different.
As he passed the smaller NATO café counter in the back corner of NATO’s special complex, he couldn’t help but notice a woman out of the corner of his eye. Her long, dark, thick tresses cascaded down her back, framing a face adorned with stunning chocolate brown eyes and lips that seemed to invite a thousand possibilities. Sergei’s heart skipped a beat, and for a moment, the world around him blurred into insignificance. It was her. His ghost. She was now before him in physical form. A ghost no more. Still, a bit of a tormenting entity that had set up house within his mind an imagination depth. Causing the agent many a restless and sleepless night. However, these dark sensations and experiences weren’t a one-way street.
Elle, too, felt an inexplicable jolt as her gaze met Sergei’s piercing glare. Her breath caught in her throat as she took in his tall, commanding presence. She had never seen a man exude such an aura of confidence and intensity. Something about him drew her in, a magnetic force that defied explanation.
Caught in their individual reveries, both Sergei and Elle were momentarily oblivious to the world around them. In that brief, suspended moment, fate intervened, and Elle’s phone case slipped from her grasp, tumbling to the floor with a soft thud.
The sound of the phone case hitting the ground shattered the enchanting silence. Sergei’s reflexes kicked in, and without hesitation, he bent down to pick it up. As his hand closed around the case, his fingers brushed against Elle’s, sending an electric shock through his veins. A shiver ran down his spine as he stole a lingering glance into her eyes, drowning in their depths.
Elle felt her cheeks flush with a rosy hue as their fingers briefly touched. His touch sent a jolt of excitement coursing through her body, awakening a longing she hadn’t known existed. The intensity of their connection was palpable, and she found herself unable to tear her gaze away from his penetrating stare.
“Thank you,” Elle managed to whisper, her voice barely audible, but Sergei heard it as if it were the sweetest melody in the world.
“You’re welcome,” Sergei replied, his voice husky and filled with a mixture of intrigue and attraction. He couldn’t help but notice the subtle quiver in Elle’s voice, mirroring the undeniable chemistry that crackled between them. Like the red and golden ambers of Sergei’s safe-house’s ginormous fireplace. That was it. The match was struck, and the fires of attraction lit. All in a matter of nanoseconds.
As the world gradually came back into focus, they became aware of their surroundings once again. The bustling chatter of conversations and the clinking of coffee cups seemed distant as if the universe had conspired to isolate them in this singular moment.
“I… I should get going,” Elle stammered, breaking the silence that had enveloped them. Her voice carried a hint of regret as if leaving meant severing a fragile connection that had just formed.
Sergei nodded, a flicker of disappointment crossing his face. “Of course. Duty calls,” he said, his words laced with a wistful undertone.
As they reluctantly parted ways, each lost in their own thoughts, the air crackled with unspoken words and unfinished conversations. They had barely exchanged a few sentences, but already an undeniable bond had formed. The seed of something extraordinary had been planted, and neither Sergei nor Elle could shake the feeling that their encounter was far from coincidental.
As Sergei continued on his way, the memory of Elle’s captivating presence lingered in his mind. He couldn’t ignore the magnetic pull he felt towards her, a force that defied the boundaries of reason and logic. Something told him that their paths would cross again, and when they did, sparks would fly, igniting a fire that neither could resist.
Meanwhile, Elle retraced her steps, her heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. Sergei had left an indelible impression on her, one that seemed to transcend time and space. She couldn’t help but wonder what lay ahead, what fate had in store for them.
In the depths of their souls, both Sergei and Elle knew that their encounter was the beginning of an extraordinary journey. The how, why, and what the fuck of was of no conquest. Well, at least at that point. Little did they realize that the flames of attraction they felt were just the first flickers of a passion that would engulf them both, setting both their spy/espionage worlds ablaze in the heart of Brussels, the city of endless primal and perilous possibilities. As if either operative gave a good goddamn!
Meet the Short Story and Romantic Suspense/Thriller Author: J. Z. Luciano
📚💫If you loved, romantic suspense and thrillers— This Will Be the Book for You!
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