It had been two months since Malakai King had abducted her. His mansion, an exquisite blend of Mediterranean elegance and modern luxury, had become her gilded cage. Set in a remote location, the sprawling estate was surrounded by lush gardens and opulent decor, a stark contrast to the tension that initially filled the air between them. The initial days had been filled with anger and defiance, her eyes burning with a mix of fear and fury. Yet, as time passed, the dynamic between them shifted.

Tonight, however, Malakai had decided to take her out of the confines of the mansion which she usually makes him do for her. They were at a quaint café nearby. The soft murmur of other patrons and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, creating a strangely comforting backdrop.

Malakai's dark eyes were fixed on her, his expression unreadable but intense. He knew nothing of her lineage, her father's identity, or the devastating history that intertwined their families. All he knew was that she had become someone he couldn't ignore, someone who had pierced through his hardened exterior.

"Mami," he began, his voice a low, soothing rumble, "it's time we talked about your future." He leaned forward, his elbows resting on the table, fingers interlaced. "These past two months, I've seen your strength, your resilience. You have become... indispensable to me."

He paused, watching her reaction carefully. "I have a proposition for you. Work with me, side by side, and I promise you'll go back home to your family. But know this, once you see what we can achieve together, you might never want to leave."

The air between them was charged with unspoken tension and unacknowledged desire. Malaki's gaze softened, just slightly, as he continued. "This isn't just about the cartel. It's about us, about what we could build together. You're no longer a captive, Mami. You're my partner, if you choose to be."