SERAFINA My heart shouldn't be fluttering like this. This man makes me feel things I wasn't ready to confront yet, emotions that scare me and make me want to let loose all at the same time. My lips still tingled from the kiss, my body thrumming in anticipation of more. He held the glass of water to my lips as he stood between my parted legs, grinning like he had just won a Grammy and I was the trophy. “Open up sweetheart.” His voice sounded like honey. “After breakfast…I’m having you for dessert.” Heat coursed through me. Not just because of the words, but the way he said them, the words sounding like a promise. Like he’d already imagined the way my body would melt under his mouth and hands. And the worst part? So had I. I took a sip from the glass, focusing on the cool water rather than the mischievous look in his eyes. “You're a shameless flirt,” I muttered, pushing the glass away with a huff. “Only for you,” he murmured as his gaze roamed down to my mouth, lingeri
SERAFINA Adrik helped me down from the counter but I couldn't look away from him. “If you keep looking at me like that, I’ll ignore the fact that I have a meeting in 20 minutes and fuck you right now.” My cheeks flushed in embarrassment as I bit my lip, looking away shyly. “Fuck, Malyshka.Don’t do that.” he cursed. My eyes darted back to him in alarm. “Do what?” “Bite your lip like that again and i’ll forget every ounce of restraint, i have,” he smirked. “But your first time with me?” He said tracing a finger down my cheek. “It won’t be rushed.” I clenched my thighs together as images of Adrik kissing and thrusting into me flooded my mind. At this point, I wanted him to have his way with me but I was too shy to admit it. My phone rings out from its position on the counter and I walk to it and see Giovanni’s name across the screen. “Hi, Gio. How are you this fine morning?” I greeted. From the side of my eye, I notice Adrik stiffen slightly. “Amore!” he called out
SERAFINA I jolted upright as my eyes landed on the time—9:30am. “Shit,” I muttered as I scrambled out of bed, throwing off the covers and darting into the bathroom. The show might not start until 5pm, but rehearsals, fittings, and last-minute preparation meant I had to be at the theatre by 11. I couldn't afford to be late. After a quick shower, I towel-dried my hair and grabbed my phone from the counter where I had left it. Two unread messages were waiting. The first was from Diana. Diana: ‘Emergency surgery this morning. I’m so sorry Sera. Break a leg tonight, I’ll be cheering from the hospital.’ The second was from Irina. Irina: ‘Landing at JFK at 2:15pm. Can't wait to see you. Save me a front-row seat, my favorite diva’. A small smile tugged at my lips. Leave it to Irina to be dramatic. I had told her about today's performance weeks ago and she had cleared her schedule and booked a flight to be here in person. My thoughts drifted t
SERAFINA ★2:45PM- Less than two hours to the show★ By the time we wrapped up the final run-through, my body ached and my throat was a bit raw. Thank God for my lozenges. Applause bounced off the empty theater from a few staff and stagehands but all I could think of was getting home in time to change and clear my head before the final call. Yuri opened the car door the moment I stepped out of the building. “Home?” he asked. I nodded, tugging my coat tighter. “Yes.” And step on it please..” The ride back home was quick and uneventful. I leaned my head on the window as I watched the city blur past as i mentally ran through every note of my aria.Occasionally my thoughts would drift to Adrik and how he had said my name this morning. By the time we pulled up to the penthouse, it was nearing 3:20pm. I had roughly an hour to transform myself from a tired woman to a soprano who would command the stage. Nadia met me at the door, hovering like a mother
SERAFINA’S POV The black Mercedes pulled up smoothly to the front gates of the Vitale estate. I stepped out and walked towards the front door. My performance tonight was exceptional as usual,I loved the thrill that went through the crowd whenever I finished a piece. But as I approached the house, a rising sense of danger slowly encircled me. I shook it off and walked in. I stepped into the foyer, glancing around. The extravagance of our family home always left me in awe. I heard footsteps approach me from behind. “Signoria” came a soft voice. I turned to see Tessa, our family maid approaching with a soft smile on her face. Tessa has been with the family for as long as I can remember. Ever since we lost mum, she had been a constant. “How are you, Tessa?” I smiled in return. “I am fine Cara (dear). You’re home late tonight”, Tessa observed taking my coat and scarf that I was about to put up. She kissed my cheeks “You were amazing tonight as always” she gushed, her eyes shining
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 large oak 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 detail
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 su
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 twitches, 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 deliberate 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”, the 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 w
SERAFINA ★2:45PM- Less than two hours to the show★ By the time we wrapped up the final run-through, my body ached and my throat was a bit raw. Thank God for my lozenges. Applause bounced off the empty theater from a few staff and stagehands but all I could think of was getting home in time to change and clear my head before the final call. Yuri opened the car door the moment I stepped out of the building. “Home?” he asked. I nodded, tugging my coat tighter. “Yes.” And step on it please..” The ride back home was quick and uneventful. I leaned my head on the window as I watched the city blur past as i mentally ran through every note of my aria.Occasionally my thoughts would drift to Adrik and how he had said my name this morning. By the time we pulled up to the penthouse, it was nearing 3:20pm. I had roughly an hour to transform myself from a tired woman to a soprano who would command the stage. Nadia met me at the door, hovering like a mother
SERAFINA I jolted upright as my eyes landed on the time—9:30am. “Shit,” I muttered as I scrambled out of bed, throwing off the covers and darting into the bathroom. The show might not start until 5pm, but rehearsals, fittings, and last-minute preparation meant I had to be at the theatre by 11. I couldn't afford to be late. After a quick shower, I towel-dried my hair and grabbed my phone from the counter where I had left it. Two unread messages were waiting. The first was from Diana. Diana: ‘Emergency surgery this morning. I’m so sorry Sera. Break a leg tonight, I’ll be cheering from the hospital.’ The second was from Irina. Irina: ‘Landing at JFK at 2:15pm. Can't wait to see you. Save me a front-row seat, my favorite diva’. A small smile tugged at my lips. Leave it to Irina to be dramatic. I had told her about today's performance weeks ago and she had cleared her schedule and booked a flight to be here in person. My thoughts drifted t
SERAFINA Adrik helped me down from the counter but I couldn't look away from him. “If you keep looking at me like that, I’ll ignore the fact that I have a meeting in 20 minutes and fuck you right now.” My cheeks flushed in embarrassment as I bit my lip, looking away shyly. “Fuck, Malyshka.Don’t do that.” he cursed. My eyes darted back to him in alarm. “Do what?” “Bite your lip like that again and i’ll forget every ounce of restraint, i have,” he smirked. “But your first time with me?” He said tracing a finger down my cheek. “It won’t be rushed.” I clenched my thighs together as images of Adrik kissing and thrusting into me flooded my mind. At this point, I wanted him to have his way with me but I was too shy to admit it. My phone rings out from its position on the counter and I walk to it and see Giovanni’s name across the screen. “Hi, Gio. How are you this fine morning?” I greeted. From the side of my eye, I notice Adrik stiffen slightly. “Amore!” he called out
SERAFINA My heart shouldn't be fluttering like this. This man makes me feel things I wasn't ready to confront yet, emotions that scare me and make me want to let loose all at the same time. My lips still tingled from the kiss, my body thrumming in anticipation of more. He held the glass of water to my lips as he stood between my parted legs, grinning like he had just won a Grammy and I was the trophy. “Open up sweetheart.” His voice sounded like honey. “After breakfast…I’m having you for dessert.” Heat coursed through me. Not just because of the words, but the way he said them, the words sounding like a promise. Like he’d already imagined the way my body would melt under his mouth and hands. And the worst part? So had I. I took a sip from the glass, focusing on the cool water rather than the mischievous look in his eyes. “You're a shameless flirt,” I muttered, pushing the glass away with a huff. “Only for you,” he murmured as his gaze roamed down to my mouth, lingeri
ADRIKO The warmth beside me was gone. I blinked against the morning light as my eyelids fluttered open, stretching my arms against the space where Serafina laid snuggled up against me a few hours ago. The sheets still felt warm but she was gone. A frown pulled at my lips as i glanced around the room. “Sera?” I called out,my voice still gruff with sleep but there was no answer. She hadn’t slept well last night—even being curled up to me, she had found it difficult to fall asleep. I hadn’t asked questions or prodded to know what the nightmares were about but i could tell that they upset her. I’d stayed with her, whispering words of comfort in Russian until she drifted asleep, her fingers still holding me for comfort. The scent of something spicy drifted into my nose, luring me out of bed. I ran a hand through my hair, stepping into her bathroom to brush my teeth with the spare toothbrush I knew was there. My eyes scanned the bathroom sink as I took in the array of product
ADRIKO THE PENTHOUSE I needed a drink. Something stiff to relieve the tension, frustration, and a little bit of bloodlust that plagued me. I was spiraling and I hated the feeling of not being in control. Striding to the bar, I grabbed a bottle of whiskey and took a swig straight from the bottle. I knew leaving Russia and setting base in New York would raise eyebrows especially as I was straying away from the more traditional aspects of the Bratva but from today's attack, it seemed a particular syndicate had grudges against my operations. I paused at Serafina’s doorway and looked in. She was asleep, curled up against the pillows, her hair a mess of fiery auburn spread across the pillow. Her lips were parted slightly, her breathing soft and even. She looked like she didn’t belong here in my fucked up world. She looked so out of reach, untouchable. But I had touched her. And fuck I wanted to do it again. I exhaled, dragging a hand through my hair as I approached the
ADRIKO If sexual frustration had a name, it would be mine. I exhaled slowly, forcing myself to walk towards Sergei who was pacing across the living room. As soon as he sensed my presence, his sharp gaze roamed over my disheveled appearance, taking in my rumpled shirt, the undone buttons, and my mussed hair. A sly smile tugged at the corner of his lips. I had never felt so strongly about killing him the way I do now. He was smart enough not to comment. “We have a problem,” he said without wasting time. “It would be a shame if we didn't, that means I’ll have to kill you.” I snapped in annoyance. He grimaced but adjusted quickly. “It’s about Marco.” That got my full attention, the embers of my dying frustration flickering back to life. “What about him?” “I was casually listening in on him and it seems he already figured out he got a duplicate device. He said something about attacking with precision.” My spine stiffened as I strode into my study, grabbed my laptop, in
SERAFINA There is a saying that goes ‘flee from all appearance of evil’—but what if the devil's touch feels like heaven? And as I stand here, staring into the eyes of sin himself, I realize, … I want to burn. I let out a shaky breath as I whisper “Touch me. I want you to.” There was a look of hunger in his eyes before he claimed my lips again, this time slower, more deliberate. He kisses me like he has all the time in the world, biting my lower lip and sucking it in before releasing it with a soft pop. Heat settles in my belly. His hands move, tracing patterns down my arms, then sliding down to my waist, gripping me firmly as he pulls me flush against him. I suck in a breath. God, he’s hard everywhere. His fingers tangle in my hair, tugging just enough to make me gasp. He angles my head back as he leaves a trail of kisses down my jaw, my throat. He pauses on the pulse beating wildly beneath my skin, his tongue skimming over it before his teeth scrape against me. A
SERAFINA I wasn't nervous. At least that's the lie I told myself as I stared at myself in the vanity mirror. Was I excited? Maybe. Anxious? A little. Conflicted? Definitely. Why you might ask? Because after being married for months, I was going on a romantic dinner with my husband and I didn't know what to expect because this was unfamiliar territory. My fingers trembled slightly as I secured the final clasp on my diamond earrings. I had chosen a rich deep purple off-the-shoulder dress, with an asymmetrical neckline and draped satin that extended over an arm. It clung to my figure in all the right places, the high slit revealing just enough of my thigh to be a distraction. I let out a breath, running my hand over the fabric as Nadia fussed around, arranging my hair in soft waves. “You look like a dream,” she murmured, stepping back to admire her work. A small smile tugged at my lips. “A dream or a well-dressed lamb walking into the lion's den?” Nadia snorted. “