Release

Prologue

ALICIA

My birthday. I was dreading this day, it's my twenty-second birthday and instead of preparing for my birthday party, I was preparing for my engagement party. Stephani, I don't even know him personally. I just know what I have heard and it was nothing good. 

I always wanted something real, something normal. I knew that was never going to happen when I learnt about my father's true identity. Growing up I was told that he was a lawyer and the reason I went to self-defence classes was that ' a girl should always know how to fight.' this was until age twelve when I found out the truth. 

I stared out the window at all the guests arriving, I knew he was already here. "Al, it's time," Mara, my handmaid said from the door giving me a sad smile. "Don't feel bad, we all know this is why I was born." I smiled back at her. 

I had given myself that same speech in the mirror about five times already. I was strong, but I have never faced anything like this in my life. taking a deep breath I followed Mara to the main room. 

As I entered the room I saw my parents talking to who I assume is Stephani He turned to look at me I followed his gaze as he looked at me from top to bottom, smiling in approval. 

He was much more handsome than I imagined he was about 6 ft 2 dark brown hair and green eyes. He looked good for thirty- five

I mastered all my courage to walk over, forcing a smile. 

STEPHANI

The timid looking creature, That's all I can say about her. Pretty face but a liability. Fuck! but I need this deal, this agreement will bring me to the top. 

she came walking over with a smile, but I can see its fake, I could see right through her, she is weak and unfit to be my wife, but her cartel is strong and I need it. as she walked over I studied her features black hair, blue eyes clean face. this tells me she has never fought before. 

She's probably hidden away and knows nothing this will be a problem. 

"Mother, father," she said smiling

"Ahh, Alicia you finally decided to come down. This is Stephani, the man you will be marrying." Victor said extending his hand signalling me to take his daughter's hand. 

I smiled at her as I took her hand. from the corner of my eye I could see everyone now looking at us. 

"May I present to you the newly engaged Stephani Marcini and Alicia Romanov," Victor announced. I looked at Alicia. I was about to kiss her.

Suddenly everything went black.