Clicking the lighter in my grip, a spark erupts, spreading a brief, soft warmth on my face. The flame's gentle dance hypnotizes me, but my mind remains a jumble of voices. The chaos of whispers and screams in my head... a relentless, maddening chorus... threatens to consume me. It's a familiar, suffocating feeling. I focus on the sound of the lighter, the soft whoosh of the flame, and the gentle hum of the music drifting up from downstairs. My eyes trails out the window, to the night sky where the stars twinkle like diamonds scattered across the velvet expanse. Hesitantly... I search for a glimpse of Rhys, but the darkness reveals nothing. That fucker dropped me off at rehearsals this morning and hasn't shown his face since. The mansion now feels empty and oppressive. Only Luciano, Ethan, and the dirty blonde guy, whose name is Mason Augustus, inhabit its sprawling halls. It's clear they're not losing sleep over Rhys and Asael's whereabouts. I, on the other hand, am wor
"What are you doing, man?""Just do it. Let's get this over with. I'm starving."The predawn hour of six is already off to a miserable start. Asael and Luciano's groans of frustration and impatience are making my head throb.I stand frozen, my fist hovering to knock on Jasper's door. Or not.Should I bother?Asael lets out a dramatic sigh. "Holy hell, this is the guy who jammed a hammer into the Raven's leader's skull last night!"I feel a surge of irritation, but I bite it back, my eyes narrowing slightly. Asael's pushing his luck. But for now, I'll let it slide.Everyone else seems to think I should apologize for yelling at Jasper, but I'm still fuming. He pushed Patricia into the pool, and I have no idea why. The memory of her spluttering, mascara-streaked face still makes my blood boil."Seriously, just knock already," Luciano says, his voice grave with impatience. He grabs my wrist, pressing my fist to the door. "Like this."I jerk my hand away, glaring at him. "I'm not doing thi
Rhys's face transforms into a captivating canvas of crimson, a deep flush spreading across his cheeks. The flush spreads from his cheeks to his ears, painting them a deep scarlet. And his eyes are gleaming with a blend of shock and intrigue. His lips part, but no words escape. He's rendered speechless, a rarity that fills me with a thrill of satisfaction. I take a step closer, my feet moving on their own accord. The space between us dwindles, and I can feel the tension building like a charged force. He's staring at me like I've gone insane. Maybe I have gone insane, but Rhys is driving me to the brink, and I'm determined to push back. "Do you doubt me, Rhys Volkov?" I ask, my voice low and gruff as I raise my hand to his chest. Rhys's skin is warm to the touch, radiating a gentle heat that seeps into my fingertips. I drag my fingers down his strong abs, squeezing gently, and his muscles flex beneath my touch. "I..." He finally speaks, his throat bobbing heavily as he struggles to
Jasper removes his pants, his groans echoing through the air, joined by pained glances that make my heart skip a beat. He presses his back against the cold wall, his chest heaving with ragged breaths as he ties his shirt around his left arm. My eyes falls upon his pink nipples, adorned with black silver rings that glint in the dim light. "Fucking sexy!" I whisper, my voice barely audible over the sound of my own ragged breathing. "Really?" Jasper smiles. A rare, breathtaking sight that leaves me... breathless. "Yeah." With a heavy breath, I bridge the gap between us, my lips brushing against the crook of his neck in a gentle kiss. "You're so beautiful." The heated feel of his pale skin sends me into a frenzy. "I... What?" Jasper's breathing grows more ragged, his chest heaving with anticipation. He's definitely close. Really close. I run my tongue along the length of his neck, feeling his muscles tense beneath my touch. As I reach his chest, his skin flushes a deep crimson, and
"No, no, I told the chick I'm not into her like that," Keon says with a grin as he digs into the pastries. "I'm just a very chill guy." I shake my head, amused. "It's normal for people to think you have a crush on them, Keon. You smile way too much and you're ridiculously friendly." I shrug. "How do you even do that? People suck the energy out of me." Just then, an image flashes in my mind. Rhys under the shower, water cascading down his chiseled tattooed body. My nipples tingle at the memory of his tongue, and I feel a prick of frustration in my chest. Dammit! Asael just had to ruined the moment between me and Rhys, leaving me to jerk off alone, with Rhys' underwear!! Keon's voice interrupts my thoughts. "I'm curious, how do you live without interacting with anyone?" He eyes me teasingly, his grin contagious. I tsk, biting into my donut. "I interact, just not as much as you do." Keon chuckles, and I continue, "Besides, someone has to keep you from failing your classes." Keon
Daddy... That fucker's voice still echoes in my head. I push the thought aside, scanning the club. The air is thick with the smell of sweat and smoke. Screams and laughter fill my ears as I watch the crowd dance and grind. Jasper's gone to change, leaving me with Luciano, who's finally put away his phone. He's staring at the guys on the dance floor, and I feel a sudden urge to ask him questions. "Lu?" He turns to me, lighter in hand, ready to light the cigarette dangling from my lips. I take a long drag on the cigarette, exhaling a wisp of smoke. "Thanks," He raises an eyebrow. "What's wrong?" "Uh..." I hesitate, unsure how to ask. "If a straight guy kisses a gay guy and likes it... does it make the straight guy gay?" Luciano's eyes widen in shock. "What?" He gasps, covering his mouth. "Did this happen to you?" "No!" I panic, waving my hands. "No, I'm just... asking." Luciano's expression turns mischievous. "Remember that time in 12th grade when I had a crush on you? I wa
Even as I deliberately ignore Conner, focusing on getting dressed, he looms over me, his charming, lopsided grin a stark contrast to the grumble in his voice. "Who knew someone like you could be so dangerous? I can't even feel my ass." I shoot him a warning glance, my heart still racing from our earlier exercise. Ah, jeez. "Stay back. You don't have to come so close." Conner's grin fades, and he takes a step back, his eyes narrowing slightly. "You're really going to make this a one-night thing?" he asks, his voice tinged with disappointment. I hiss at him, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm busy. And hungry." I brush past him, but he grabs my wrist, his touch sending a spark of rage and panic through me. I swiftly slap his hand away, my palm stinging from the impact. "Don't touch me." Conner's eyes widen, and he takes another step back, his expression a mix of surprise and concern. "Those things on your arm... the band-aids are as pale as your skin, but it's..." "Who the
For the past five days, I've been knee-deep in the dark underbelly of Los Angeles, dealing with the aftermath of Dad's latest power play. Exploring the complex web of alliances and rivalries, I'm becoming increasingly adept at taking down those who dare to challenge the Bravta's rule. The city streets are a labyrinth of corruption and deceit, where the strong survive and the weak are devoured. I've been learning the ropes with Asael and the others, and I have to admit, it's exhilarating. But this life wasn't my choice. Dad told me to use school as a cover to stay in Los Angeles, to keep a low profile until I'm ready to take over as the lord and boss of the Russian Mafia. It's a role I'm not sure I'm ready for, but I know I have no choice. Stepping into the warehouse at the port, the smell of saltwater and diesel hits me like a punch to the gut. I grip my mace tightly, the familiar weight of it a comforting presence in my hand. Asael and the others spread out around me, our eyes s
"N..No. I can't do this." I break away from the kiss, tearing myself away from him. "Goddammit!"My heart is racing so fast I have to press my hand to it. "You have to stop messing with me, Rhys. If you want me, tell me and I'll stay with you. If you don't want me, I'll leave."Rhys yanks me forward, pressing my body against his as he wraps his arms around my waist, gripping my sweater tightly. I can feel his intensity, his desire to rip it off."Rhys." My body trembles, and I can feel his heart pounding against his chest, like it's trying to break free.I look up at him, his hair obscuring his eyes, but I can see them darkening in the dim light."Rhys," I whisper, my breath catching in my throat. "What do you want from me?"He leans in, his face inches from mine, our lips almost touching. Our breath mingles, and I can feel his heart beating in time with mine."Rhys." Tears prick at the corners of my eyes. Bloody hell! I just want to hear him say the words I desperately need to hear.
Riding my bike back home from violin practice, I'm met with a surprise. The mansion compound is packed with cars, and the sound of booming music, cheers, and screams fills the air. I park my bike, exhaustion washing over me as I remove my helmet. "I'm not in a party mood." It's Asael's birthday today, and I hadn't planned on returning to the mansion so late. My mind has been preoccupied with securing a solo spot. I'm so close! I make my way through the crowd, scanning the sea of faces for a glimpse of Rhys, but all I can see is Asael and Luciano dancing together, surrounded by cheering people. Luciano is laughing and spraying them money. I roll my eyes, a grumble escaping my lips. "Rich people." As I step up the stairs and into the hall, I find myself standing in front of Rhys' door. I stare hard at it, feeling the urge to open it, but it's probably locked – and he doesn't want to see me. Maybe he wants to. My phone buzzes in my pocket, breaking the spell. I pull it o
It's Asael's birthday today, and the party is tonight. But I'm not really concerned about the preparations because Asael made it clear he wants to handle everything himself.Right now, I'm at the company, signing documents my dad told me to take care of. I'm exhausted and grumpy, dreading the fact that this will be my life soon.Makar is lounging on the couch, his eyes sealed on his phone. He looks more conflicted than usual. "What's wrong?" I ask, raising an eyebrow.He looks up at me, his eyes wide with surprise, like he didn't expect me to ask. "Well, erm... My father wants me to do something that will prevent a war between us and the Italians.""What?" My phone buzzes, and I glance at the screen to see a message from Dad. [Arrange marriage.]"Well, that's unexpected." I look up at Makar, who forces a weak smile."I'm guessing you know what I'm supposed to do," He rises from the couch, storms out of my office, and slams the door behind him, screaming, "I'm getting married to a fu
I'm returning from the club at 12 pm, not exactly part of my plan, but the unwanted energy I've been receiving lately is pushing me away from this mansion.For an odd reason, I feel like Batman.I head to the kitchen, opening the fridge to find a large bowl of chocolate ice cream. And hell! Do I feel blessed!"Just gotta take this to my room, watch a movie, and ignore that asshole," I grumble to myself as I make my way upstairs, through the hall.But.. Before I know it, I'm standing in front of Rhys' door, staring at it like an obsessed freak.Damn.We had a good thing going at the beach the other night, but of course, from the next day on, he's been giving me that "you ruined my life" look.At first, I didn't want to believe it. But fuck it! We're back to square one."Open sesame," I pull the door handle, and to my surprise, it's unlocked."Oh?" I step into the dark room, and the moonlight illuminates Rhys, who's fast asleep, his chest rising and falling with each gentle breath.He l
Damon takes a drag of his cigarette, his eyes fixed on the bloodied mace clutched in my hand. "Makar had a run-in with the Ravens last night," he mutters. "Seems they've gone to the Italians for help."I gaze at my bloodied hand, a grim smile spreading across my face as my bloodlust begins to subside. "Smart move, crawling under the Italians' feet," I say. "Father's been trying to avoid an all-out war between us."Damon's calculated eyes narrow, studying me intently. I can sense his unspoken questions, his attempts to unravel the complexities of my thoughts and emotions.I sit in the chair, the lifeless body of the Ravens' leader beside me, a gruesome note to the brutality I've unleashed. The Ravens think they can hide behind the Italians. "The war is inevitable now," I growl, my voice low and menacing. "I'm wiping out the Ravens completely. I don't care if they're in hiding. They tried to hurt my family."The words feel like fire in my throat, and I realize, with a sense of unease,
I kick at the sand with my boots, feeling an overwhelming sense of joy in my chest. The wind blows around me, and I feel carefree, like I'm five again. I skip along, laughing and swinging my arms as I gaze out at the ocean waves glinting under the full moonlight.But I'm not excited because of the beach. I'm excited because of the large, tattooed man walking behind me, his admiring gaze fixed on me. I walk backwards, cocking my head to the side as I stare at him."Do you like me, straight boy?" I ask, a playful smile spreading across my face."I hate you," he replies immediately, his expression stern.I shrug nonchalantly, feeling a sense of ease in my stomach. "That's reassuring."I twirl, walking ahead towards the ocean, but Rhys immediately yanks me back. "Nope. It's cold. You're not going in there." His arm wraps tightly around my waist, possessive and warm.I throw my head back to look at his chiseled, gorgeous face. "Well, promise me we'll come to the beach for a swim then."Rhy
"Are you just going to keep staring at him? Go to him, asshole." Luciano says, snatching the cigarette from my lips. I quickly retrieve it, my eyes narrowing warily."I'm... I'm going to do that, but not now," I say, trying to sound nonchalant.Luciano's face falls, his expression a picture of disappointment. "Not while everyone is looking."I'm not sure what comes over me, but I feel a sudden urge to laugh. It's a manic, unhinged sound, and it startles even me. But I quickly compose myself, take a long drag on my cigarette, and blow a stream of smoke directly into Luciano's face, my expression stern."I'm not ashamed or anything like that. I'm just... shy, I think," I admit, trying to downplay my feelings.Luciano's eyes widen in surprise. "You like him!" he exclaims, his voice a bit too loud for comfort.My body's immediate response is panic, and I find myself glancing over at Jasper, who's still engrossed in conversation with Keon. They're both staring at Jasper's phone, probably d
I'm standing at the starting line of The Devil's Den, a 25-mile loop that begins and ends in Venice Beach. As I look out at the route ahead, I can see that it takes riders through the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, past the iconic Santa Monica Pier, and into the winding roads of the Santa Monica Mountains.Fuck! Looking up at the night sky, I sight a faint shooting star, and my chest feels fuzzy and light.I want to win.I really want to win.But Rhys's gray eyes are stuck in my head, distracting me. His voice echoes in my mind. 'Who am I to you?'The host's voice is a distant hum, the crowd's cheers a clamor of static noise. My heart is racing, and all I can hear is the scream of my own adrenaline as I rev up my engine alongside the other riders.The flag drops, and we're off, speeding down the road like a pack of wild animals.Rhys's question echoes in my mind. 'Who am I to you?' But I push it aside, focusing on the road ahead.I zip past the pier, taking sharp turns with precision,
I've never been interested in men. I've never entertained the thought.That was until Luciano came out as gay at fifteen. He'd had a crush on Damon for as long as I could remember.Our families had been close-knit since our parents' school days. My father, Vadim Volkov, head of the Russian mafia, and Luciano's father, head of the Spanish mafia, shared an unbreakable bond and loyalty.Their friendship had blossomed into a lasting alliance, strengthened by the coincidence of their wives giving birth to sons in the same year.Luciani is a few months older than me, born in September, while I'm a December boy.When he didn't win Damon's heart, he set his sights on me at sixteen. He confessed his feelings, and we made a playful bet that he could make me fall for him.We even shared a kiss, but it didn't spark anything romantic between us. We never made a big deal about it, occasionally bringing it up to laugh.I've always identified as straight, drawn to girls. I've had numerous flings, but