CHAPTER ONE

Nadia's POV

It's another day at the shop.

Another day to delve into the madness of this world and everything it brings. The atmosphere crackles with an electric charge, suffusing the air and constricting my lungs. Sunlight filters through the delicate lace curtains, casting intricate shadows on the threadbare carpet, while the room itself seems to hold its breath, poised for the imminent clash. And I know that from the moment I place my legs on the ground and leave my bed, I will not catch a moment's rest until I come back home again.

I have always been a planner, even as a little girl, when my father would travel and ask me to play 'Boss' while he was gone. I knew that he never really left me in charge, but that I would be in charge eventually.

My dream has always been running Pavel, and now I am finally doing it, even though my parents had to be killed by the rival cartel for me to take over.

Pavel Group is constantly growing and that means, this brain of mine and everything that completes me to work together in its best and maximum ability to keep the business running and growing. It's a whirlwind of responsibilities, a constant juggle to keep this business thriving and evolving, that's the only way to keep mama and papa's dream alive.

Each passing moment requires a perfect synchronization of my thoughts and actions to ensure Pavel Group's success, from the day in day out activities to the dealing with other groups down to the dealing with the authorities.

I sit in my office, the scent of aged leather and musty parchment intertwine in the room, permeating my nostrils with the essence of history and tradition. The earthy fragrance of well-read books, weathered with time and knowledge, lingers in the air, tempting me to seek solace within their pages. Yet, their presence also serves as a constant reminder of the burdensome expectations I bear as a Volkova and my will even as Nadia.

I ring the bell on the mahogany desk before me, the Bell's tinkling breaking the morning silence. It's a call for my PA, friend and confidant, Isabella. In no less than two minutes, the door creaks open announcing her presence, a blend of quiet confidence and unwavering support.

"Good morning, Boss," she greets with a warm tone, her eyes sparkling with purpose.

"Morning, Isabella," I greeted, a smile tugging at my lips as her presence brought a sense of calm to the buzzing room. "What's on the cards today?"

"Let's see," Isabella began, her voice steady and precise amid the organized chaos. "You are going with Peeta to a high stakes meeting with the Japanese in about thirty minutes, followed by negotiations with the Chinese at noon. Alberto's eager for a follow-up, ready to put our plans into motion. Alessandro's email unveiled a tantalizing new menu for the restaurant. Shipments are prepped, eagerly awaiting your green light, and Mr. Casino's pushing for your nod on expanding our delivery routes. However, silence from the security firm today," the urgency in her tone mirroring how important the decisions I make would be.

"Arrange the restaurant meeting and let Chef Alessandro know I'm eager for his ideas," I say, already craving his mouth watering dishes.

"Ensure the arm dealings move quickly and silently. Our security strategy needs to be sharp and alert. Send a message to the head of each team and let them know I need word from them before the close of day. And for deliveries, let Casino know he has my go ahead. He should explore new and secure routes, I don't need to explain the reason why "secure" is of high importance".

Isabella's eyes widen briefly, taking in  every bit of my instructions. "Got it, Boss," she nods, her voice calm.

"Hey Boss," Peeta, my childhood friend, enters my office just as Isabella walks out. I did not miss the way, Isabella turned to look at him, just before she stepped out.

Peeta had been my friend for the longest time, back when my parents were still alive, he had worked with them, so when I took over, it was a no brainer that he would work for me.

"Hey Peeta," I greeted him as he stood in front of my desk.

"The meeting with the Japanese is in about thirty, are you ready to go?" He asked me.

"Always," I give him a small smile, as I stand up, grabbing my suit jacket.

About twenty minutes later, I am striding confidently into the hotel lobby where I would meet with Japanese, my lips curved upward, revealing a radiant smile that lit up my entire face- a smile of victory. My demeanor exudes coolness and self-assurance. I know for sure that I'm the best in the field and there's no way they'd have refused my offer or meeting personally after I'd sent Peeta to speak with them about a week ago.

The receptionist looks up as Peeta presses the little bell on her table. She is absolutely startled by my presence.

"Um good morning Ms. Volkova, the Japanese have already arrived, the meeting room is in hall b, by the conference room," She splutters out awkwardly.

I simply nod in acknowledgement before striding purposefully towards the room where the meeting is to take place with Peeta behind me. Every step I take exuding a quiet confidence that commands attention.

Peeta opens the door for me as I step in and the room is filled with the Japanese, their gazes fixed on me as I enter. I take a moment to soak in the atmosphere as I gracefully take my seat at the table, my eyes scanning the room, meeting each gaze with a calm yet knowing look. I smile to myself, confident that whatever the reason, I'm not leaving here without a sealing handshake. It's me, Nadia, formidable and unbeatable.

The meeting commences. I paint a vivid picture of what Pavel group can offer, highlighting our unique strengths and the benefits we bring to the table. Every sentence brim with passion and expertise, leaving no doubt in the minds of those present that Pavel and I are the ideal choice. No more, no less. Silence befalls the room as I conclude my presentation, anticipation palpable. I lean back in my chair, my expression serene, knowing that I had left a lasting impression.

Peeta casts me a proud look as I relax in my seat and I give him a small smile.

After a brief pause, the Japanese break into a wide smile. They speak briefly amongst themselves and finally, the one who happens to be the interpreter speaks up, his voice light, and filled with admiration.

"You've proven indeed that the words on the street are right and there is no wasted effort coming all the way here. We can carry out plans immediately" he says, his tone brimming with genuine praise. With a gentle upturn of my mouth, a warm and genuine smile spread across my features, reaching my eyes and creating a captivating glow.

"However,  what are your plans for dealing with Rivera? The Japanese won't be held responsible should a war ensue"

"Rivera, Pavel can take care of. You need not worry" I tell them confidently.

"We are not worried. Pavel should be. If a gang war should ensue and it ruins business with Rivera, Pavel would have the Japanese to deal with"

As the words sink in, I feel a flash of irritation, rage flowing through me like a lava, threatening to consume me. My smile falters, a flicker of disbelief dancing in my eyes. The corners of my lips that were once upturned now quiver, losing their previous radiance. The spark of joy that had illuminated my face dims and my brows furrow slightly, the lines on my forehead betraying the sudden shift in my emotions. It's as if the very essence of my smile has been snuffed out, leaving behind only a red, hot trail of flaming red.

Rivera, the dreaded Rivals of Pavel, I reason, digging my nails into my hands angrily.