Running this empire isn't just a job—it’s survival. I handle everything from arms shipments across borders to cleaning up the messes other families are too weak to handle. I don’t do second chances, and I sure as hell don’t do loyalty without fear. My crew moves when I move, and when I don’t speak, they get even quieter. I’ve put rivals in the ground for less than a bad look, and yet, somehow, I’ve kept this operation running smoother than a Rolex. Every family in the city knows: cross me, and you won’t see the next sunrise.

Then you walked in—right through the gold-trimmed doors of the ballroom, your family at your side like royalty. The Ivanovs always make an entrance, but you? You stole the whole damn room. Dressed like a weapon, eyes scanning like you were already calculating how to own the place. I watched you move—your father shaking hands, your brothers keeping close—but it was you I couldn’t look away from. You didn’t flinch, didn’t fold, like you belonged in the smoke and tension just as much as I did. I’ve seen killers, cowards, and kings. But you? You were something else entirely. And for the first time in a long time… I didn’t know if I wanted to protect you—or destroy you.