ADRIKO’S POV

   I stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows of my Manhattan penthouse, the city sprawling below in its chaotic rhythm. 

   Horns blared, headlights blinked like fireflies in the endless traffic, and faceless figures hurried along the sidewalks.

   Manhattan never sleeps, and tonight, its energy matched my restless thoughts.

    I sipped my vodka and watched. The view never got old. 

   It however lacked the allure of Moscow in summer,its golden evenings and soft, warm breezes. Still, Manhattan had its rugged charm, though it was a poor substitute for home.

   I pushed the thought aside. Nostalgia had no place in my life here. Not with this wedding tightening around my neck like a noose.

    Sergei’s voice pulled me out of my reprieve. He’s seated on the other side of my desk,tablet in hand, rattling off updates about shipments. 

   I stride to my chair and sink in.

    “The shipment to the South Boston waterfront is set to leave at midnight,” he said, scrolling through the details.”The port authorities have been handled.”

   He looked up at me, as though to ensure I was listening.

   “The next batch for Utrecht ,seven containers marked as textile imports ships in four days. Our men are ready to receive it.”

    I set my glass down on the table beside me and looked him straight in the eyes.

    “And Cannes? Has Dinma confirmed the route? “

    Sergei tapped the top of the tablet, holding my gaze while he nodded briskly. “All handled, no foul business this time”

    “Good”. I lean back and closed my eyes briefly.” I don’t want any surprises. We can’t afford another slip-up,not after what happened in Tokyo”

    Sergei smirked, “That was a one-time issue. I’m pretty sure Aoki and his pawns learned their lesson”

    I kept quiet. The Yakuza syndicate headed by Aoki was a ruthless bunch.

   Yes, they had learned but at the cost of the lives of four of my best trained men and a shipment filled with drugs and weaponry that cost me millions. 

   I glanced at the city below and see a familiar figure step out of a blue Cadillac.

   My brow furrowed.I don’t remember setting a meeting for today.

    There’s a pause and I sensed a change in the tone of the conversation. Sergei’s tone is lighter now, more casual.

    “So he drawled, lowering the tablet and taking a sip from his glass. Have you met her yet?”

    I looked back at him “Met who?”

    “Your bride-to-be.The Italian girl.Serafina right? Don’t tell me you’re not a little curious to see if she’s as entrancing as they say?” he laughed with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

    I scoffed and shook my head leaning forward slightly.

    “What does it matter?” I asked,waving off his curiosity. “She could be beautiful or plain, clever or a half-wit.It changes nothing. This union isn’t about love or attraction. It's to broker peace and form new alliances.”

    Sergei chuckled, leaning back against his chair. “You always haven’t been one for romance boss”

    I smirked though there’s no humor associated with it.

    “Well forgive me if I’m not swooning over the thought of being shackled with some half-witted girl. I know what needs to be done to ensure my authority and the safety of my bratva isn't questioned”

    For a moment he doesn't say anything, his smile fading as he studied me.He’s trying to figure out if there’s more to it but there isn’t. 

   At least, not that I’d admit. 

   I had learned a long time ago to keep my cards to myself and not show all my moves even to my shadow. Finally, he shrugged.

    “I guess sending the ring to her father already took care of any curiosity that might arise”.

    Ah, the ring.Sergei had insisted we send one over but I honestly had not seen the point. I wondered briefly what type of ring he had gotten. 

   Sergei noticed the contemplative look on my face but before he could question me on it, there was a knock at the door.

   We both glanced up as Nadia my housekeeper, stepped in, her hands clasped in front of her. She looked nervous as she always does when interrupting me.

    “What is it, Nadia”? I questioned, irritation evident in my tone.

    “Sorry to interrupt Mr. Ivanov,” she replied, her voice soft with the familiar Russian lilt “She is here”.

    I frowned. “she?”

    “Your guest” she clarified, lowering her gaze. “Ms.Zlata”.

    I huffed, barely suppressing a groan of annoyance. I knew that figure looked familiar. We weren’t supposed to meet today, I wonder why she was here.

    Sergei smirks “Ah, Zlata. Always punctual, isn’t she?”

    Ignoring him, I stood and adjusted my jacket. “Let her in”.

    Nadia nodded and disappeared. 

   A moment later Zlata strides into the room like she owns it. Her black silk dress clings to her like a second skin, her platinum blonde hair was pulled back into a low bun, sleek and perfect. 

   She always exuded the confidence of someone who knows she is desirable,and the cockiness of someone who thinks she is indispensable but unfortunately no one is.

    ”Adrik,” she drawls, giving me a sultry smile as she steps closer. 

    “Zlata,” I responded with a curious stare “Wasn’t expecting you today”.

    She tilts her head, her blue eyes locked on mine “I was in the area so I decided to drop by and surprise you” she pouted as her tongue darted out and swiped across her lips.

    I lift an eyebrow, a clear sign of my displeasure. Zlata and I don’t do surprises.

    Noticing my displeasure, she smiles and bats her lashes “Would you rather I left?” 

    I hesitated for a second. It’s been a long week, I could do with some distraction. “Fine,” I conceded gesturing for her to sit.

   Behind me, I hear Sergei clear his throat loudly, his grin evident even without me looking.

    “I’ll leave you two to… catch up,” Sergei smirked, as he straightened. “I’ll update you on the shipments tomorrow”.

    “Don’t keep me waiting” I warned without looking at him.

    When the door closed behind him, I pour Zlata a glass of Vodka and hand it to her. She takes it with a slight smile settling onto the couch. 

   Her movements are practiced, timed and seductive.

   Everything about her is calculated, just like the arrangement between us.

    ”You seem distracted tonight,” She commented,watching me carefully as she sipped her drink. ”Trouble with business?” 

    “No” I replied with a curt tone “nothing I can’t handle”

    She placed her glass down and makes her way towards me. Sitting beside me on the couch,she runs her fingers down my neck…She leaned closer, her breath brushing against my ear. 

    “Would you like me to take your mind off it?” She whispered. 

    Whatever distraction she planned would have to wait as the vibration of my phone on the table caught my attention. 

   The screen flashed with a name I hadn’t seen in years. 

   My blood turned cold.

 SERAFINA'S POV

    Sunlight seeped into the room, casting a luminous glow across the furniture as though it was trying to chase the shadows that lurked within. 

   My stomach churned with nausea and I do my best to ignore it.

    The makeup artist wraps up quickly as she smoothes a brush over my lips.

    I stared at myself in the full-length mirror and can not recognize the woman looking back at me.

   I look beautiful. Too beautiful.

    The dress is a delicate off-the-shoulder white lace, long-sleeved mermaid dress, with thousands of beadings running across the bodice.

   The neckline plunges a bit, hinting at my voluptuous breasts. My fiery mane of auburn hair is tamed and wrapped intricately with a simple diamond tiara.

    "You look so stunning, Fina" Diana gushed, her voice tinged with emotions as she moved to stand behind me, adjusting my tiara.

    She meets my eyes in the mirror and gives me a reassuring smile. I manage a small smile back, feeling grateful for the gift of Diana's friendship and support. 

   We grew up together, attending the same schools, we were inseparable. She's like a sister I never had.

    "I feel sick," I admit softly, letting out a shaky breath.

    "You know I am always here if you need anything right. We can even hatch out an escape plan" She leaned in to whisper to me with a mischievous glint in her eyes. 

    I chuckled softly appreciating her attempt at humor even though we both knew any move at escape was a wasted effort.

    An ache of helplessness settled in my chest.

   I wished my brother Lorenzo was here. Asides from Diana and Tessa, he was the only other ally I had. 

    But then Lorenzo hasn't been around for anything since......

    A sharp knock at the door interrupted my train of thought and I glanced over at it..

   Diana opens it to reveal my father. He paused briefly at the doorway and regarded me with an expression akin to pride. 

    "Serafina. Sei bellissima figlia" (you look, beautiful daughter). 

    Stiffening at the statement, I looked away from him. I haven't been able to look him in the eye since the night he delivered the news that broke me.

    "Are you ready?" His tone left no doubt that the moment of weakness was gone.

    "I'm ready" I lie, though my voice cracked.

    He steps further into the room, regarding me with caution. He extended his right arm to me and I took it, entwining mine with his.

    ***********

    The wedding is being held at the Grand Oheka Castle. Perfect for a fairytale wedding but it felt like my funeral.

    I stood at the arched entrance to the garden path, that opened towards rows of perfectly trimmed hedges stretching endlessly.

   The strategically placed ponds shimmered in the sunlight with the occasional ripple of koi fish breaking to the surface.

    The soft strains of the wedding match drew me to the present and in unison, the guests turn their heads to stare at me in awe.

    I clutch the calla lilies to my bosom and look away from their scrutinizing stares. 

   Taking an unsteady step forward, my gaze drifted to Adriko, standing beneath a grand floral arch waiting for me.

    He was wearing a well-tailored custom tuxedo that hugged his broad shoulders and taut biceps. 

   Traces of intricately drawn tattoos peeped out from the cuffs of his sleeves. The visible part of his neck is adorned with an array of striking ink that commands attention. 

   A black and gray rose blooms on the side of his neck, its petals sharp. The stem curves gracefully down towards his collarbone, entwined with a Cyrillic lettering that I can't translate.

   I lift my gaze upwards and his piercing blue eyes lock on mine. 

    I come to a halt in front of him, a ripple of awareness coursing through me.

    Focus Sera i mutter to myself. 

   The priest gives us a curt nod and begins speaking.

    "Dearly Beloved, we are here today 

    I tune out the voice of the priest, focusing my attention on Adriko, his blue eyes pulled me in. I noticed the clenching of his jaw and wondered briefly what he might be thinking. 

    The voice of the priest filters back into my ears "Marriage is not merely a union of two people" he commented in a steady and reverent voice." It is a binding declaration of love, trust, and shared purpose".

    Trust and love. My throat tightened at the irony of those words. Adriko's expression was closed off. I wondered what was going through his head.

    Looking away from his intense gaze,my eyes drift over the sea of faces who were staring at me, some in curiosity, others in judgment.

   I caught the gazes of a few women who stared at Adriko with barely concealed lust.

    The voice of the priest brings my attention back.

    "Do you Serafina Vitale, take this man Adriko Ivanov to be your lawfully wedded husband? To love, honor, and cherish him, in sickness and in health, for as long as you both shall live?" 

    My heart rate picked up as I struggled to speak.

    "I..." The word caught in my throat, barely audible

    Adriko's hand brushed against mine, a slight touch that jolted me to my core but succeeded in pulling me back to the moment.

   His eyes burned into mine an unspoken command present in their depths.

    "I do," I said, my voice trembling slightly but clear enough to carry.

    "Can we have the rings? " The priest asked. 

    A man whom I hadn't noticed initially, stepped out from beside Adriko and handed him a box. 

   I took the ring from the priest and proceeded to slip the silver band onto Adriko's ring finger.

    Adriko repeated the same vows and as he looked down to slip the wedding band Onto my ring finger, he noticed the absence of the engagement ring.

   His hold tightened on my fingers and he looked up at me with a glare,a flicker of annoyance flashing in his eyes. 

    "Where is your engagement ring?" he questioned sharply. His voice is deep and striking, his Russian accent impossible to hide.

    "I misplaced it," I replied in a clipped tone.

   His brows furrowed as his jaws clenched in unmistakable signs of anger but he masked it quickly and his face returned to its initial aloof expression. 

    "I now pronounce you Mr and Mrs Ivanov. You may now kiss the bride" The priest declared.

    My eyes darted quickly to Adriko's in panic, wondering if he was going to kiss me. 

   He leaned forward, maneuvering me expertly in a classic dip that to onlookers, appeared like we were in a lip lock. 

   He stared deeply into my eyes and smirked.

    "Mrs Ivanova, he murmured, his voice mocking, were you expecting a kiss?" 

    My eyes widened a fraction as the reality of being called Mrs Ivanova registers within me and I push lightly on his chest, which make him straighten with a final cutting remark whispered into my ear.

    "Smile", he teased "The people are watching." 

    We turned and faced the guests. Cheers and applause broke out across the fields.

   I fixed a tight smile on my face as guests began to troop forward offering their congratulations.

    Diana and Tessa rushed towards me, taking turns to hug me and plant kisses on my cheeks.

    As we moved towards the entrance to the indoor reception, the sound of a clear feminine voice rang out from behind us.

    "Adrik!" the voice called out.

    I turned towards the source, my eyes landing on a strikingly beautiful woman making her way towards us. 

   She was quite tall and moved gracefully, her brunette mane falling down her back in loose waves and a sharp jawline that bore a striking resemblance to Adriko's frames her face. 

   Her lips curved into a sly smile as she approached us, her emerald green dress, shimmering with every step she took.

    "Irina" Adriko greeted in surprise "Didn't think you were going to make it"

    "I was able to get a last-minute flight," she explained while throwing her arms around him, pressing a kiss to each cheek before stepping back "It's been too long brother."

    Adriko's expression softened slightly, the first glimpse of warmth I have seen all day.

   He looked towards me, his hand tightening slightly on my waist "Serafina, this is my sister Irina Ivanova" 

    Irina's gaze swept over me, assessing me with interest. She extends a well-manicured hand, her practiced smile polite "It's a pleasure to meet you, Serafina. My brother has spoken-very little about you"

    "Likewise" I replied, my tone guarded. I took her hand, taking note of her firm grip.

    " Excellent" Her smile widened though it didn't quite reach her eyes "We would have to fix that as soon as possible. There's so much I would love to learn about my sister-in-law".

    Before I could respond, Adriko stiffened beside me staring straight ahead at a man, dressed in black standing near the entrance to the main doors.

    "What is he doing here?" he questioned in an icy tone of voice that sent shivers down my spine.

        ADRIKO'S POV The presence of Viktor set off warning bells in my head. The air felt thick like a volcano was teetering beneath the surface. My hand twitched, itching for the familiar weight of my gun in my pocket but I can't make a scene...at least not yet. His lips curves into a slow cunny smile as he strides forward, his gait too casual, too confident for a man walking into the lion's den. I know it is a strategy. Viktor never acted without a plan. "Adrik, hope i'm not late? ,I couldn't miss the history-making occasion", he said with a mocking smile spreading across his face. Seeing that look on his face took me back to memories I'd rather not dwell on, deals gone wrong, bonds broken. He had always challenged my authority and questioned my decisions. We hadn't crossed paths since I left Russia but this..him here, now was a veiled threat "You weren't invited," I snapped, my tone sharp enough to slice through butter. Serafina's gaze moved between Viktor and me. Her eyes were sharp with curiosity. I could see the wheels turning in her head. "Oh but I was" he retorted, his mocking smile widening "Irina dear asked that I be her plus one" "Irina?" I frowned, giving my sister a questioning look. She looked at me, her expression one of innocence. "I ran into him at the airport brother" she mumbled with a shrug. "I didn't realize you two were still...at odds" I raised a brow at her carefree tone, a flare of irritation shooting through me. At odds? That was a light way to put it. "And you thought it was best not to seek my permission first?" I ground out, my voice laced with warning. Irina sighed," It's a celebration Adrik. Can we not do this now? The guests are waiting for you and Serafina inside," she pleaded. "Yes Adrik, it is a happy day after all. Loosen up a bit". Viktor chuckled glancing at Serafina beside me. I took a step towards now "Leave. Now" He didn't make a move,his eyes glittering with amusement. When his gaze returned to Serafina, she straightened, the smallest flicker of discomfort crossing her face but it was gone as quickly as it appeared which made me question if I had imagined it. "Congratulations on the wedding Mrs Ivanov," he sneered "I look forward to seeing how long this....truce lasts". His smile lingered as he turned on his heel and retreated into the shadows disappearing into the darkness beyond the courtyard. As the silence settled over us, I turned back to Irina who glanced away guiltily. "Let this be the first and last, this happens," I warned. Her gaze fell, her hands toying with the hem of her dress "I didn't think it would be a big deal brother." she grumbled defensively but I caught the edge of guilt in it. "I'm sorry". My jaw tightened as I watched her turn and stride into the reception hall, leaving me standing there with Serafina at my side. "Who was that?" Serafina asked, her voice laced with curiosity. "None of your concern" I replied curtly, not wanting to divulge information to her. "Two shall become one", "Wasn't that what the priest said" she teased "We are married now so it is my concern" I turned to her, stepping closer,my height forcing her to tilt her head to meet my gaze "Do you always stick your nose where it doesn't belong, Mrs Ivanova?" Her glare didn't waver "Do you always evade questions when you are cornered, Mr Ivanov?" For a moment, I was torn between irritation and an unwilling flicker of amusement. She had fire and a smart mouth. A loud hum of voices and laughter from the reception spilled out into the courtyard, interrupting my line of thought. It was a reminder of the happy facade we were supposed to be presenting. "Let's go" I respond, ignoring her jab "We've wasted enough time out here." ************* Conversations flowed smoothly among the guests. Champagne glasses are being refilled and passed around by the waiters. The chandeliers cast a golden glow over the tiles, while shadows lingered in the corners, watching and waiting. Serafina is seated beside me observing the guests with a guarded look as she fiddles with her hands on her lap, the lone wedding band glittering. I am reminded of her earlier comment which prompts me to lean toward her, my breath brushing against her ear. "Where is it?" I ask in genuine curiosity. She looks up at me startled "Where's what?" her brows furrowed in confusion. "The engagement ring," I demanded, my head tilting to her fingers ."Did you leave it behind on purpose?" "It's gone," she hissed,her chin tilting up in defiance. "Gone?" I say with an arched brow. "A ring doesn't just disappear", Mrs Ivanova" She rolls her eyes "A ring isn't a chain Mr Ivanov. I didn't see the need to keep it" My jaw clenched in annoyance "It Isn't Just a ring Serafina, it was custom-made and a symbol of an alliance. One I suggest you wear". She glares at me "Why would I do that? I didn't ask for the alliance" "You may not have, but you went along with it like a good little pawn," I counter,my voice sharp and cutting, with the intent to hurt. For a moment we stared each other down, none of us ready to back down. With a scoff, she looked away from my intimidating gaze. The music shifts to a soft romantic melody and the guests move around subtly to create room for what appears to be the first dance. I look to Serafina with a smirk "Shall we?" "Do I have a choice?" she muttered. "Not tonight" I chuckled ,taking her outstretched arm and leading her onto the dancefloor, her resistance evident in the reluctant sway of her hips. Her dress hugged her figure in all the right places, the lush fabric shimmering under the chandelier. She was exquisite, radiant even. I pull her closer than necessary, my hand resting on the small of her back that feels soft to my touch and I wondered briefly if the rest of her would feel as soft. She squirms lightly in my hold snapping me out of my roaming thoughts. I glance down at her. "Relax", I said, my tone filled with authority. "It's a dance, not a battlefield" Her grey eyes locked onto mine "But it feels like one" she mumbled. A small smile crept upon my face "Only because you insist on defying me at every turn, Mrs Ivanova" Her face scrunched into a frown, she made to say something but at the last minute refrained. I twirled her slowly savoring the fleeting vulnerability in her expression before she looked away. I followed her gaze and saw her father. He stood at the far corner of the ballroom, nursing a glass of champagne while in deep conversation with Don Marco. I observed them, they are both skilled manipulators and expert liars each not knowing how dangerous the other might be. I knew it was time to make an exit, I had indulged in enough charade for one day. I looked down at Serafina who was now looking in the direction of her friend and housekeeper. I squeeze her hips lightly to grab her attention. She returned her gaze to me. "It's time to go. You can say your goodbyes to your family." She nods, disengaging herself from me as she moves in their direction. I walk towards the exit, signaling to Sergei that it is time to leave. I had dismissed some of my men and chauffeur earlier, wanting to drive myself tonight. Serafina joins me at the exit and we walk outside and make our way towards the Rolls Royce Phantom. The shrill ringing of my phone cuts through the night air. I bring it out of my pocket and see an incoming call from an unknown number. I pick and a distorted and unrecognizable voice rasps from the other end. "Watch your steps, Ivanov. This truce will bury you and your bride." The line goes dead before I can say a word. A chill snakes down my spine as i stared at my phone. A faint tick, tick, tick floated into my ears and my head snapped up, my whole body suddenly at alert. I dive towards Serafina in the same instant that a deafening BOOM shatters the night. The Rolls Royce explodes in a violent eruption of fire and metal leaving chaos in its wake.