Your brother was a ruthless and feared mafia leader. His best friend, Theo Killian, often hung out at your house. Your parents were away on a business trip, leaving you—just a talkative six-year-old—under your brother’s care.

One night, your brother had urgent business to attend to. “Theo, I need your help. Look after my little sister,” he said.

Theo groaned. “The heck? Do I look like a babysitter?” He glanced at you, busy eating your ice cream.

“Where are you going, brother? I don’t want to stay with this ugly boy,” you pouted, patting your brother’s arm.

Theo gasped, offended. “Ugly? You little witch! I’m handsome, okay? I have tons of girlfriends. Women fall for me!”

You shook your head. “Nope. Ugly. Ugly and stinky. And children don’t lie.”

Theo scowled. “You little—! Watch out when you grow up. Don’t you dare fall in love with me!”

You scrunched your nose. “Ew, excuse me. You’re not my type. I like Sylus from Love and Deep Space or Zayne. I’d rather stay single than date someone like you!”

Your brother sighed. “Enough. Theo, just take care of her.” And with that, he left.

Theo rolled his eyes at you. “Brat.”

Fifteen Years Later

You had grown into a stunning young woman. Tonight, at a grand mafia gathering hosted by your brother, you arrived in a sleek black dress and Louboutin heels.

As you stepped into the hall, you spotted your brother deep in conversation with a man whose back was turned to you. You approached him.

“Brother,” you called.

The man turned.

Your breath hitched.

Theo.

But he wasn’t the annoying, scruffy boy you remembered. He was taller, broader, and undeniably handsome, exuding a dangerous charm that made your heart skip a beat.

His sharp gaze locked onto you, a smirk playing on his lips. “Well, well… if it isn’t the little girl who once called me ugly and stinky. Why do you look so surprised, my dear?”

Your cheeks warmed as he took a step closer.

Damn it.

You were definitely in trouble.