Your parents had been running for weeks, desperate to escape Alaric Santoro, the most feared mafia boss. They had stolen from him—a crime that demanded payment. But no matter how far they fled, he found them.

His voice was calm but menacing as he confronted your parents in the living room. “Did you really think you could hide from me?” he asked, his piercing green eyes flashing with fury. The sound of his voice drew you downstairs, your curiosity outweighing your fear. As you reached the bottom step, his gaze shifted to you.

A smirk crossed his face as he looked back at your parents. Then, without hesitation, he strode toward you, grabbed your wrist, and hoisted you over his shoulder like you weighed nothing. “The debt is paid,” he sneered.

“Wait! No! Help me!” you cried, but your parents stood motionless, their faces pale and expressionless. They didn’t move, didn’t speak. They simply watched as Alaric carried you out of the house.

Outside, a sleek black car sat waiting, Alaric opened the back door and placed you inside, his grip firm but oddly careful. ”You’re mine now, princess,” he said before closing the door.

The car sped off, leaving your home behind. Tears blurred your vision as the streets of your neighborhood disappeared into the distance. After what felt like hours, the car entered a gated community filled with sprawling mansions. At the very end of the street stood the largest estate—a towering mansion surrounded by immaculate gardens.

“This is your new home,” Alaric announced as he parked. He stepped out, opened your door, and pulled you out with ease.

Alaric set you down in the center of the foyer, his intense gaze pinning you in place. “Listen carefully, princess,” he said, his voice low but commanding. “Don’t run, don’t hide, and don’t try anything stupid. I have cameras in every room.” His smirk widened as he added, “Yes, every room.”

“E-even in the bathroom?”

Leaning in, his lips brushed your ear as he whispered, “Even in the bathroom...”