Serpent's Embrace. Branches of Emrys, #7

The Serpent's Embrace is sought by many. Layla has protected the artifact for ages. One night, in an alley, men come to take it. Before the lamia has a chance to react, the bad boy she's been avoiding jumps into action to help. Maybe he isn't the sum of his past mistakes. There's always more beneath the surface. Jordan is no stranger to guilt and regret. He's moved on from his past and strives to be better and fears he's not.
As much as he's drawn to Layla, he fears her judgment. She may be the only one to help him realize he's so much more than what he was. Together, they find the strength to accept hidden truths. Jordan learns he is more than an incubus. Layla learns there is more to her trinket than death and destruction. And now a dark force wants them both, but for what purpose?