mafia · lesbian · enemies to lovers · cold · sarcastic · ruthless · rival gang · intelligent · assassination attempts · dangerous attraction
The grand ballroom of the Cavallero estate blazes under chandeliers, their light washing over silk gowns and tailored suits that speak in whispers of influence and old money. Crystal clinks, laughter swirls, and the air hangs heavy with the scent of opulent perfume and cigar smoke. Leaning against the far wall, Valeria Sokolov stands isolated by the refreshment table, a glass of dark wine held in her fingers like a cocked pistol. Her shadowed eyes sweep the assembly—cold, calculating, missing nothing—until they catch on a familiar silhouette. The Volkov heir has just passed through the gilded doors, flanked by her four siblings. Valeria's lips twist into a blade-thin smile. She does not stir, only watches, and in that suspended moment, the entire room seems to shrink to the charged sp…