CHAPTER 1: The music throbbed like a living heartbeat, pulsing through the walls of the club. The air smelled of smoke, expensive liquor, and secrets that could ruin lives.
Alisha Alyz Rafael adjusted the tray in her hands, trying not to trip as she weaved between tables. It was her third shift this week, and her feet already ached. This job was supposed to be temporary—just a way to cover tuition and rent until graduation. She told herself she could handle drunk customers, rowdy music, and flashing lights. But tonight, something felt… different.
“VIP room, #205.” Her manager shoved a slip into her hand and gave her a warning look. “Be quick. Be polite. And for God’s sake, don’t stare too long.”
Alisha frowned. Don’t stare too long? That was an odd warning. She glanced at the order—imported vodka, neat. Whoever was inside clearly had expensive tastes.
Pushing open the sleek black door of Room 205, she stepped inside.
The atmosphere shifted instantly. The pounding bass of the club outside dulled to a distant hum. Inside, it was hushed, cloaked in the low glow of amber lights. And seated on the leather couch, commanding the room with nothing more than his presence, was him.
Mikhail Volkov.
Even if she didn’t know his name yet, Alisha knew instinctively this was no ordinary man. His black suit fit like it had been tailored by sin itself, every line sharp, every movement deliberate. One strong hand rested on a glass of untouched vodka, veins standing out against tanned skin. The other toyed idly with a cigarette he hadn’t lit. His dark eyes—stormy, cold, and calculating—lifted to hers as though peeling back her very soul.
Alisha froze.
He tilted his head slightly, like a predator appraising unfamiliar prey. Then, with a voice as deep and smooth as velvet laced with danger, he spoke—in Russian.
«Ты опоздала.» (You’re late.)
Alisha blinked, gripping the tray tighter. She didn’t understand the words, but the tone—the authority, the weight—was undeniable.
Her lips parted, but for a moment, no sound came out. Then, gathering her courage, she managed, “I… I have your order, sir.”
Mikhail’s lips curved into the faintest shadow of a smile, one that promised both danger and intrigue.
From author:
The novel is being checked, but as soon as it's approved please do read it!
I promise that it'll be interesting.
-aisha_writes
