Sweet Deceit

Lila Ivy Morgan was a 23-year-old woman with a radiant smile and an unwavering sense of hope. Born and raised in a small town, she worked at the local bakery, where the scent of freshly baked bread filled her every day. Despite her simple life, Lila had big dreams. She was studying part-time at the university to become a doctor, determined to help people and make a difference in the world. Her life had always been ordinary, filled with school assignments, long hours at the bakery, and the quiet comfort of her close-knit family.

Damon Ezro Astor was the kind of man who inspired both fear and admiration. At 35, he had built an empire that spanned across Asia, his name synonymous with wealth, power, and influence. On the surface, he was a suave, successful businessman-an entrepreneur who had made billions in technology, real estate, and investment. His charity work, media appearances, and philanthropic efforts had earned him a reputation as a man of integrity.

However, beneath the polished exterior, Damon was the feared leader of one of the most powerful and dangerous criminal organizations in Asia. His mafia network controlled illegal trade routes, the black market, and had a hand in various illicit activities. No one dared to cross him, and those who did were never heard from again.

Despite the ruthlessness of his underworld empire, Damon kept a tight grip on his public image, carefully managing his persona through media and high-society events. His business acumen was sharp, but it was his ability to manipulate those around him, both in the legal and illegal worlds, that had cemented his dominance.

One evening, during a business trip to the town where Lila lived, Damon walked into the bakery, drawn by the aroma of freshly baked goods. There was something about him that intrigued her, but she dismissed it as the fleeting curiosity one might have for a stranger.

Shall we get started?

/The cover is not mine, credit to the rightful owner/