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.        

 SERAFINA’S POV

    The world shattered in an instant. 

    One minute I was walking towards the Car, Adriko’s presence looming behind me. 

   The next, the ground vibrated with a violent roar, cracking open as bits of asphalt and flame shot into the air.

   The force slammed me down hard, broken debris tearing into my side. I felt the weight of Adriko on top of me as mayhem broke out around us.

    A buzzing sound rang in my ear, making it hard to think. The harsh smell of smoke and burning metal filled my nose, choking me. 

   I coughed, my chest aching with each breath I took, and my eyes watered from the effects of the smoke around me.

    Adriko’s voice floated into my hearing from somewhere around but it was muffled and distant. 

    His grip tightened on my shoulders, shaking me subtly as he examined my face. 

   His lips were moving but the ringing in my ears drowned out the noise.

    “Serafina!!” his voice finally floated in.

    I blinked at him, still too dazed to respond. 

    “Are you hurt?” he asked, his ocean-blue eyes scanning my face. 

   His fingers brushed against my forehead and I caught a glimpse of a red crimson stain smeared across his fingertips as he pulled away. 

   My stomach churned.

    “Is that…blood?” I whispered, my voice coming out weaker than I expected.

    ”It’s a small cut,” he said quickly, his voice firm.

    A sharp pain flared through me as I tried to move.

    “My side” my throat burned as i spoke, “It hurts”. 

    His expression turned to one of concern immediately. “Lay back down, I’ll be back,” he responded tightly. 

   Before I can process his words he rises to his feet, the sudden absence of his warmth making me shiver.

    He strides towards Sergei and the rest of his men, giving out orders.

    “Lockdown the area, evacuate the guests”.Alert Dinma to send reinforcements now, he barked.

    “Yes boss”, Sergei responds.

    “How about Irina?” Adriko asked.

    “She’s safe.” 

    Adriko nodded, then paused mid-step. “Find the source. I want to know who is behind this, every link,every whisper, track it down”. He says sharply.

    Sergei nodded and disappeared into the shadows.

    I pushed myself up on trembling arms but the world spun violently, forcing me back down. 

   Hot tears clouded my vision, threatening to spill over. Just a week ago, my life was so simple. 

   How did I go From singing on stage to now being a target?

    Adriko returned a moment later kneeling beside me.

    “Hey,” he whispered, his hand brushing my forehead, steady and surprisingly gentle. “We’re leaving”, he continued, his voice low but firm as if trying not to betray the tension pulling at him. “Can you stand?” 

    “I think so” I lied through gritted teeth, the pain flaring sharply in protest. He pinned me with a stare as if he knew the truth but didn't bother to call me out on it.

    He scooped me up with ease, his stride steady despite the chaos around us. 

   My head rested against his broad chest, my limbs too heavy to move. 

   I sucked in a sharp breath as pain shot through my side with every step he took.

    “I can walk,” I protested. 

    “No you can’t,” he replied with a note of finality.

    Barking out sharp and urgent commands, he carried me to the waiting SUV. 

   The cool leather seat pressed against my back as I snuggled into the warm blanket that was placed over me. 

   Adriko got in beside me as the driver put the car in motion and sped from the mayhem.

    *************************

    The ride to the penthouse was a quiet blur. Adriko’s occasional instructions over the phone breaking the silence.

    “Here,” I turned to see him extending a bottle of water towards me. I hesitated, my hands still trembling too much to be able to grip it firmly. 

    He sighed with a slight shake of his head, unscrewing the cap and holding the bottle to my lips, his fingers brushing against my chin.

    I took a small sip, the cold liquid immediately soothing my parched throat. “Thank you” I murmured, my voice still faint.

    He didn't respond, his eyes fixed on the road.

    The car came to a halt in front of a massive building. 

   Adriko came to my side of the car, his movements swift. He pulled open the door and lifted me out.

   I hated how safe I felt. How dare he make me feel this way when my world was in turmoil?

    “Put me down,” I muttered. “I can…” 

    “Enough!” he snapped, his tone sharp and final.

    I bristled at his sharp tone “You seem to be very good at barking out orders. Why don't you command me to breathe while you're at it?”

    His grip tightened on me “Watch your words Serafina” he murmured calmly “or I might drop you''. 

    I fell silent, biting back the retort on the tip of my tongue. 

    Inside the reception area, the luxury of the building was even more glaring. 

   Security guards littered the perimeter reminding me of the mayhem we just left.

   They glanced briefly at us and looked away just as quickly.

    Paying them no mind, he strode towards the elevator and placed his thumb over a scanner.

   The doors swung open and he stepped in, cradling me closer as we rode up to the first floor. 

   When the doors swung open it revealed a penthouse that was breathtaking with its floor-to-ceiling windows spanning the massive living room.

    Walking down a faintly lit hallway towards a door, he pushed it open to reveal a guest room. 

   Striding towards the bed, he placed me down gently. 

   I glanced around, noting the lavish furnishings and the faint scent of lavender in the air. 

    “Stay still” he ordered, disappearing briefly before returning with a first aid kit and a damp cloth. 

   He discarded his jacket, revealing the tattoos that snaked up his arms. 

    “This might sting,” he soothed pulling a chair close, his intense gaze locking on mine.

    “You don't have to fuss over me” I whispered looking away to avoid his gaze that suddenly made me uncomfortable.

    “Fuss?” he scoffed. “I’m doing you a favor, people don't get this kind of treatment from me”.

    “Oh, lucky me,” I said dryly. 

    He started with the cut on my forehead, dabbing at it gently with the damp cloth. I winced, the sting sharper than I anticipated. 

   He worked fast and expertly, stitching the cut and placing a light bandage over it.

    He glanced at me while packing up the first aid box. “You'll need to get out of this dress, “ he quipped eyeing the torn-up and greased dress. 

    “Why?” I asked sharply, my guard rising instantly.

    He sighed in frustration “To check your ribs. Relax Serafina”, he said, his voice laced with mockery. “I have no interest in seeing you naked. You're not my type”.

    My cheeks burned “Go to hell” I spat. Clenching my fists at his mocking tone.

    “Ladies first” he murmured, his lips curling into a humorless smirk but as soon as it appeared, it was gone. 

    The ringing of his phone cuts through the tense silence. He glances at the caller ID and slides it into his pocket.

    Standing, he picks up his jacket. “Nadia, my housekeeper, is coming to help you out of that dress.“Get some rest,” his voice was cold as he strode towards the door. 

    “The doctor will be here soon to check your ribs.” 

    And then he was gone, the door clicking shut behind him.