An offer you can't refuse

THE OFFER

The study was a sanctuary of dark wood and leather, the scent of aged bourbon and cigar smoke clinging to the shelves of first-edition books. Jenny poured two glasses with hands that betrayed only the faintest tremor of excitement.

"I want you on my team," he said, sliding a cut-crystal tumbler toward Vasudeva. "Name your price."

Vasudeva swirled the amber liquid, watching the way the light caught the facets of the glass. "And why would I abandon Clemente?"

Jenny leaned in, his elbows braced against the desk. "Because I'm going to be the next Caronte patriarch." His voice dropped, conspiratorial. "And with you at my side... there's no limit*."

The unspoken promise hung between them—power, wealth, influence beyond measure.

The door creaked open.

Talia stood framed in the doorway, her emerald gown clinging to every curve, her storm-grey eyes alight with amusement. "Oh, Jenny... you're adorable."* She sauntered in, her hips swaying with each step, her gaze locked on Vasudeva like a predator eyeing its next meal. "But he's ours."

Jenny's grin turned vicious. "We'll see."