MATURE

Life hasn’t been kind to me. One moment, I was a carefree eighteen-year-old with dreams of a bright future. The next, I was a 28 year old lady and my world went up in flames. literally. My mom died in the fire that destroyed our home, my little sister is in a coma, and my brother’s in jail for trying to keep us afloat. My dad? He left us drowning in debt and despair.

I thought I’d hit rock bottom, but then I found myself working in a place where dreams go to die, doing things I never imagined just to survive. That’s when he walked into my life, Alex Romanov. Dangerous. Mysterious. And entirely out of my league.

He’s everything I should fear, but there’s something about him that draws me in. Maybe it’s the way he looks at me like I’m more than just another broken soul. Or the way he makes me feel alive when I thought I’d forgotten how.

But Alex has secrets, dark ones that could destroy us both. And as my past collides with his world, I’m left wondering: Can I trust the man who’s slowly stealing my heart, or will his darkness swallow me whole?

This isn’t the life I wanted, but it’s the one I’ve been given.

I stepped out of the mansion, adjusting the cuffs of my tailored black suit as the cool morning breeze brushed against my face. The city was already awake, but for men like me, the real business operated in the shadows, away from prying eyes and meddlesome authorities. Luca was already waiting for me by the sleek black Mercedes, his sharp eyes scanning our surroundings as I approached.


"Everything's set?" I asked as I slid into the backseat.


Luca nodded, starting the car. "Yes, boss. The shipment arrived last night, and our men have secured the docks. No interference, no unexpected visitors. Just like you ordered."


I leaned back, exhaling slowly. "Good. Let's go."


Chapter 138 - Take hold care