Underworld Submission (book 1)

The Velvet Encounter

The sound of Adrian Hayes' shoes echoed in the empty parking garage of the precinct as he walked towards the exit. His mind was focused on the upcoming meeting with Dominic Russo, and he couldn't shake the feeling of anticipation that had been building all day. When he reached the street, a sleek black sedan awaited him, its dark-tinted windows reflecting the city lights. The car was a far cry from the standard police issue and immediately signaled that this wasn't just another meeting.

The driver, a well-dressed man in a crisp suit, stepped out of the vehicle with a polite nod. "Detective Hayes?" he asked, his voice carrying a note of practiced courtesy.

"That's me," Adrian replied, sliding into the back seat of the car. The door shut with a soft click, and the sedan began to move smoothly through the city streets.

As they drove, Adrian glanced out the window, taking in the sights of the bustling city at night. The skyline was a mix of shimmering office buildings and dimly lit alleys, and the hum of traffic was punctuated by the occasional honk of a car horn. The journey through the city felt like a transition from his world of law enforcement to Dominic's world of organized crime.

The driver navigated expertly through the streets, and Adrian noted how the surroundings gradually changed. The busy, neon-lit areas gave way to more upscale and less frequented avenues. The city's pulse seemed to slow down as they approached a more exclusive part of town, where luxury cars were more common and the buildings loomed large and impressive.

After a brief but picturesque drive, the car pulled up in front of a high-rise building that exuded both elegance and authority. The building's facade was a striking combination of glass and steel, illuminated by carefully positioned lights that accentuated its modern design. A doorman in a sharp uniform greeted the car and opened the door for Adrian.

He stepped out onto the marble-tiled entrance of the building, the chill of the evening air contrasting with the warmth of the lobby. The interior was opulent, with polished marble floors, grand chandeliers, and tasteful artwork adorning the walls. The lobby was quiet, save for the soft murmur of a few other guests and the gentle hum of the reception desk.

Adrian approached the desk, where a receptionist greeted him with a courteous smile. "Good evening, Detective Hayes. Mr. Russo is expecting you. If you'll follow me."

She led him to a private elevator, its doors sliding open with a whisper. The ride up was smooth and quick, the elevator's interior as luxurious as the rest of the building—plush carpeting, mirrored walls, and soft, ambient lighting.

When the elevator doors opened, Adrian stepped into a hallway lined with dark wood paneling and modern artwork. The corridor was dimly lit, creating an atmosphere of understated sophistication. The scent of fresh flowers wafted through the air, adding a subtle touch of luxury.

The receptionist guided him to a large set of double doors, which she opened to reveal Dominic Russo's office. The space was a blend of modern design and classic opulence, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a stunning view of the city below. The office was tastefully furnished with a large mahogany desk, leather chairs, and a sleek, minimalistic décor.

Dominic was already there, standing behind his desk with a confident stance, his presence commanding and charismatic. He looked up as Adrian entered, a faint, knowing smile playing on his lips.

"Detective Hayes," Dominic greeted, his voice smooth and inviting. "I'm glad you could make it."

Adrian nodded, feeling the weight of the moment. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, setting the stage for their encounter. As he stepped further into the office, he knew that this meeting would push the boundaries of their relationship and reveal new facets of their dynamic.