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.

   ADRIKO’S POV

      The door clicked shut behind me and my eyes instinctively flickered to my phone screen.

     Sergei.

     My thumb Swiped the receive button, and I pressed the phone to my ear. 

      “Speak” I ordered, my voice low and calm despite the fury simmering underneath the surface.

      “We found something boss” Sergei reported. 

      I strode down the hallway, taking swift steps to my study.

      “Tell me”.

      “The detonator, it’s a high-class military piece. Someone went through a lot of trouble to get it”.

      I reached the end of the hallway and pushed open the doors to my office.

     The scent of leather and polished wood greeted me as I paced across the room.

     Shoving my hands in my pockets, I glanced out my study window, the city bustling below.

      “And the source?” I asked.

      “That's where it gets complicated. The parts were smuggled into the city months ago but it was assembled-” 

      “Spit it out, Sergei”. 

      “Well the markings on the piece seem to point to the Yakuza, but we ain't hundred percent certain yet, it could be a diversion”

      My fists tightened beside me. The Yakuza. Of course, it had to be them, they had been circling us for months now waiting to pounce.

      “What about casualties?” I asked, though I already knew I wouldn't like the answer. 

      “Five dead” he replied grimly. “Three of our men, two guests. A dozen others injured but non-critical”.

      I pinched the bridge of my nose, the sting of the news settling in the pit of my stomach “The timing was too precise, how the fuck did they know where and when to strike!?”

      Sergei hesitated. I could hear his heavy breathing from the other end. 

      “There’s more, the device was planted inside the venue hours before the event. The one planted by the Rolls Royce was just to seal your fate. Someone had inside knowledge”.

      The hairs at the back of my neck stood. A mole, someone within had betrayed us.

      “Find them” I growled, my voice low and menacing. 

      “I don’t care if you have to turn the city upside down, I need names and when you find them, bring them to me alive”

      “Understood boss”. 

      The line clicked off, and I tossed the phone onto my desk sinking into the chair. 

     I let out a sharp breath of annoyance as I leaned back and stared up at the ceiling. My mind raced with different thoughts.

     Alot of my enemies were getting bolder but this time,they had gone too far and were going to regret it.

      The memory of the explosion flashed in my mind, the panicked and fearful look in Serafina’s wide gray eyes as I pulled her from the ground still left me with that feeling of unease that I tried to shake off. 

     I replay the verbal exchange we had earlier and chuckle softly to myself. 

     Most people cowered under my sharp gaze and commanding aura but not her, she faced me head-on and for some strange reason, that fire in her both irritates and intrigues me. 

      “She doesn’t even know the danger she’s in” I murmured to the empty room, the words hanging heavy.

      A soft knock on my office door interrupts my thoughts. Nadia stepped inside, her usual composure replaced by something softer.

      “The doctor's here to check on her Mr Ivanov” she announced,her voice edged with concern.

      I rise from my desk, grabbing my blood-stained Jacket from the back of the chair. “Take him to her and make sure he has everything he needs”.My tone was clipped but not unkind.

      She nodded quickly “Yes sir”.

      “I’m heading to the club now and I probably won't be back until morning. If anything urgent comes up, Dinma is a call away“.

      “No problem Mr Ivanov. Please be careful out there” she added, concern laced in her voice.

      “I will, Nadia. Thank you” I gave her a reassuring nod before walking to my bedroom for a quick shower and change.

      ♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧

      The roar of the car engine filled the silence as I sped through the city streets to my club ‘BELYE NOCHI’. 

     My fists gripped the steering wheel, as I reflected on the events of the day.

      I parked the car, the blaring music greeting me as I entered. 

     The scent of cigarettes, spilled whiskey, perfume, and alcohol lingered in the air.

      To the naive eye, this was just a regular strip club but eighty percent of my illicit dealings go on here. 

     I glanced at the stage, where a dancer in red swayed to the music, running her hands down her body sensually. 

     My eyes lingered for only a moment noting the inviting look in her eyes but I wasn’t interested in indulging, not tonight.

      I made my way upstairs to my office through the private staircase. By the time I turned a corner, I was met by Tasha, one of the servers.

      “Mr. Ivanov”, she began hesitantly, her eyes darting around nervously “I need to talk to you”.

      I paused, my eyes narrowing “About what?” 

      Her hands trembled as she wrung them together glancing behind as though expecting someone to step out from the shadows. “It’s about…what happened tonight. The explosion”. 

      “You have two seconds to speak” I snapped, irritation creeping into my voice.

      She bit her lips, lowered her voice, and stepped closer. “Last week, I overheard one of our regular customers and a new face having a conversation in the VIP lounge. The new guy said something about ‘timing the blast’.” 

     She paused as she took a deep breath “I thought he was drunk and talking nonsense. But after what happened today at your wedding……”. Her voice faltered

      My patience thinned. I stepped forward, my fists clenching at my sides. “Who was it?” 

      “I don’t know his name” she stammered, her eyes wide with fear. 

      “He had tattoos with weird inscriptions, the words were foreign. He’s been here twice this month and always ordered the most expensive whiskey “. 

      I gripped her arm, not too tightly but enough to rattle her. 

     Her skin was cold beneath my fingers, her breath hitching in fear “You better not be making this up, or you’re as good as dead”. 

      Her eyes bulged and she quickly shook her head “I’m not lying, I swear”. 

      I let go, my voice dropping to a low growl “Get back to work, and don’t say a word of this to anyone“. 

      She nods rapidly and skitters back to the bar. I enter my office and place a call to my club manager.

      “Dimitri, pull the video surveillance from the VIP lounge for the last two weeks. I want to know every single person that has been in and out. Make it fast”

      “On it boss. I’ll be there in ten”.

      I pour myself a stiff drink, the alcohol burning my throat as I strode to the tinted window that overlooked the main floor of the club that was bustling with activities.

     Tipsy men were sticking wads of cash in between the boobs of the dancers, servers moving quickly drinks in hand. 

      A knock on the door draws my attention away.

      “Enter”.

      Dimitri walks in, holding a couple of tapes.“Got them, boss”.

      I nodded towards the TV and video player in the corner of the room. He moves quickly, inserting the first tape. 

     The screen flickers to life, and the weight of silence hangs heavy in the air as we focus intently on the screen. 

     A vaguely familiar figure grabs my attention as I refill my glass. 

      “There! Rewind and pause!” I barked. Dimitri works quickly, zooming in. 

     The figure becomes clearer and I curl my fingers violently around the glass.

      “Well look who we have here” I snarled, recognition flashing in my eyes.

      The shrill ringing of my phone cuts through the tense silence. I glance at the ID and swipe 

      “Govori” ( speak) I snapped, irritation creeping into my voice.

      I listen as Sergei’s voice floats into the room “We have a name boss and you’re not going to like it”. 

      The words hung in the air.

      I exhaled sharply, already knowing who he was. “Bring him to me alive”.