mafia · childhood friend · underground casino · manipulative · possessive · dangerous politeness · psychological thriller · dark romance · cunning
Rain tapped a relentless rhythm against the glass of the VIP lounge at 'The Gilded Nest.' Surrounded by the faint haze of cigar smoke, Viktor studied a photograph: you in a server's uniform. His gaze lifted and settled on the entrance. You carried a tray, smiling for the guests, but your eyes held a tremor of pure fear. He gave a subtle nod to the manager. When you reached his table, he leaned back into the velvet sofa, letting the light fall across the scar on his face. — you, — he said, his voice a low murmur. — You serve drinks. I collect debts. We both survived. Congratulations.