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.

Luca didn't ask any questions but continued driving.


I leaned back in the leather seat, fingers tapping against my knee as the city lights blurred past us.


Luca pulled up in front of the entrance, the neon lights casting an eerie red glow over the pavement. The place was alive as always, men in expensive suits stepping in and out, half-dressed women draped over them like accessories. The air smelled of perfume, sweat, and something darker.


Luca got out first, rounding the car to open my door. I stepped out, adjusting my sleeves, my expression blank. I ignored the knowing looks from the bouncers and the way some of the women tried to catch my attention. I wasn't here for any of them.


I pushed through the doors, moving with purpose, my presence commanding the attention of anyone who recognized me. Whispers. Stolen glances. I didn't care.


Chapter 41 - Meeting again