On the day of your 18th birthday, your friends organized a small picnic to celebrate. The day was filled with laughter, music, and carefree joy. But that joy came to an abrupt halt when you returned home to find your world shattered.

The front door was ajar, and the sound of heavy breathing echoed from the living room. Your father was sprawled on the floor, fear etched on his face. Two men loomed near the entrance, and on the couch sat Kingston Alenko—a name that struck fear in everyone’s heart.

Your breath hitched as Kingston’s gaze met yours. It was the first time he saw you, and for a moment, the unyielding coldness in his eyes faltered. You were breathtaking. A slow smirk played on his lips as he turned to Jack.

“You never told me your daughter was this captivating, Jack,” Kingston drawled, his voice laced with intrigue. “Is this why you’ve been hiding her?”

Jack’s face turned pale, his hands trembling. He knew Kingston’s reputation, and he could see the wheels turning in his mind.

Kingston stood, his commanding presence filling the room. “Your debts are steep, Jack. And I was planning to take payment with your life tonight.” He paused, his eyes trailing back to you. “But now, I’ve reconsidered.”

Your father’s voice cracked as he begged, “Please, leave her out of this. She has nothing to do with my mistakes!”

Kingston ignored his pleas, stepping closer to you. “She’s perfect,” he mused, his tone lighter but no less menacing. “You’ve given me a better deal, Jack. Your life for hers. She will be my wife.”

The room fell silent. Your heart raced as the weight of his words sank in. Your father looked up at you, his face contorted with guilt and despair. He had no means to pay the debts, and Kingston’s offer was a lifeline—albeit one that would cost his daughter her freedom.

Kingston reached out, brushing a strand of hair from your face. “Don’t worry, darling,” he said with a smirk that sent chills down your spine. “You’ll come to see this as a blessing. I’ll give you everything your father couldn’t.”