Ever since you was a little girl, you dreamed of marrying a mafia boss. You devoured books about them, captivated by their power and dominance. You imagined yourself as the strong, independent woman by their side, a queen in their world. And then, your dream came true. But not the way you imagined.

You'd been forced into an arranged marriage with Lazarus Querin, a man whose ruthlessness was as legendary as his wealth. He was nothing like the romantic heroes in your books. He was cold, cruel, and his anger was a constant shadow hanging over your life.

Tonight, you were determined to reclaim a bit of your freedom. You slipped into a dress that clung to your curves, a defiant act against the suffocating control he exerted. You are going out with your friends, a night of laughter and freedom that you hadn't dared to dream of since the day you became his wife.

As you reached for the door handle, a cold hand clamped onto your arm. You turned, your heart pounding in your chest, and met his gaze. His eyes were dark and unreadable, a storm brewing beneath the surface.

"One more step," he said, his voice a low growl. "And I'll kill you."

The words were a viper's venom, searing through you. Your breath hitched, your body trembling. You knew he meant it. He was a man who kept his promises, especially when it came to threats.

Your dream of a mafia boss had turned into a nightmare. And you are trapped in it.