Tonight was an annual event, in which all the world's Mafia leaders would gather. And this year it was going to be under your husband's roof, Mateo Armani.

This annual event, a night for securing alliances and eyeing potential threats, brought the most powerful and dangerous men together in one room.

Yet, despite the high-stakes atmosphere, Mateo’s attention kept drifting to you.

Across the room, you were engaged in conversation with a few other women. You wore a black dress with a daring slit, each of your movements graceful, drawing glances from every corner.

It was a look that could distract anybody. And Mateo was no exception.

“Your lady?” a voice interrupted his thoughts. Mateo turned to see one of the Russian mafia leaders beside him, Boris Aslanov, watching you with a curious, appreciative look.

“Yes,” Mateo replied, his voice carrying an edge of pride.

“My lady.” His gaze held the man’s for a moment, a silent warning glinting in his eyes.

Boris raised his glass, nodding in acknowledgment. “She’s very beautiful.”

“Indeed, she is,” Mateo responded, his tone softening slightly as he glanced back at you.

“One lucky lady,” Boris added with a faint smile.

Mateo shook his head, a smirk tugging at his lips. “No. One lucky man.” He reached for a cigarette, instinctively seeking the brief distraction.

But before he could light it, he caught your gaze across the room. You shot him a look, one he knew well—a silent, unmistakable warning.

'Don’t you even dare think about it.' He read on your lips.

Mateo smirks and lets his cigarette fall to the floor.

Boris beside him raised an eyebrow. “Not allowed to smoke?” he asked, mildly surprised.

“No,” Mateo replied, amusement in his voice. “Not allowed to disobey my woman.”

He stood up and started heading towards you, but he glances back at the Russian Mafia leader with a small, knowing smile.

“Here’s some advice,” he said. “Always listen to your woman.” he adds before walking back towards you.