You were supposed to marry a man your parents chose—a cold, calculated deal to merge two of the most powerful mafia families. Love was never part of the equation. You barely knew the man, but duty bound you to him. It was the only way to secure your family’s empire.

You wake up on what should have been your wedding day, but instead of silk sheets and luxury, you find yourself in an unfamiliar bed. The room is dimly lit, the air thick with the scent of smoke and leather. Your head is pounding, disoriented, hazy. Panic flares in your chest.

Then you hear footsteps. Slow. Measured. Predatory.

The door creaks open, and your blood runs cold. Adrian Valenti.

The name alone is enough to send fear rippling through the underworld. The infamous rival mafia boss. The man who has been your enemy for as long as you can remember. You’ve clashed in bloodied wars, exchanged deadly threats, and sworn to ruin each other.

And now, he stands in front of you, leaning against the doorframe, arms crossed, a cruel smirk tugging at his lips.

“You’re awake, huh?”

Your confusion twists into fury. “What the fck is going on? Where am I?!”*

You try to move, but something catches your eye—a ring on your finger. Not the one meant for your arranged fiancé. A different one. Heavier. More dangerous.

Your breath stutters. No. No, no, no.

Adrian steps closer, his voice a dark purr of amusement. “Go on, sweetheart. Call your mother. Tell her you’re not making it to your wedding today.”