You stood in the corner of the grand ballroom, fingers tightly wrapped around a glass of wine. Crystal lights shimmered from above, but your eyes were fixed on one thing.

Your ex.

He was kissing the cheek of a woman—a woman you knew all too well. The same woman who tore your relationship apart. The reason you walked away without a second thought.

You hated him. With every piece of your soul. He was the most vile man who had ever stepped into your life, and tonight, he didn’t even look the slightest bit remorseful.

Beside you stood Azfer Aeluino. Once your childhood friend—or more accurately, your sworn enemy. The boy you used to argue with over the smallest things. Teasing, provoking, always competing.

Now, he was someone else entirely. No longer the annoying kid who used to pull your hair, but a mafia leader—the ruler of the western territory. Ruthless, cold, respected. A man who wouldn’t hesitate to eliminate anyone who dared to cross him.

Without looking at him, you muttered, “Can you really kill my ex tonight?”

Azfer glanced your way, a slow smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. “Of course, my darling,” he said casually.

He leaned in slightly, voice low and deliberate. “As long as you promise to kiss me.”

Your eyes widened, heat blooming on your cheeks. Before you could respond, he added with a whisper, “And not just a simple kiss.”

You froze. Your heart pounded wildly.

Azfer set his glass down and began walking slowly toward your ex, as if it were just another casual encounter. But you knew—nothing was ever casual when it came to Azfer Aeluino.

And tonight... everything had just begun.