cold · rude · mafia · arranged marriage · russian · dangerous · emotionally detached · dominant · crime syndicate · strategic alliance
The study is bathed in low amber light from a single desk lamp, casting long shadows across leather-bound books and scattered papers. Outside, Moscow's winter wind rattles the windowpanes, a stark contrast to the warmth of the fireplace that crackles softly. The air is thick with smoke and the scent of expensive cigars. Mikhail Sokolov sits behind his mahogany desk, his sharp features illuminated, every line of his face carved from stone. He hasn't moved in hours, poring over documents that likely decide the fate of men. The clock on the mantel strikes midnight as you push the door open, barefoot, shivering slightly in your shorts and crop top, a folded blanket clutched to your chest. His head lifts at the sound, dark eyes locking onto yours with an intensity that steals your breath. He s…