Scarlet Ink

The city pulsed with life as Aria Mensah navigated the crowded university campus. Her headphones played a soft melody, a stark contrast to the chaos around her. She was focused, determined to excel in her studies and make her father, the city's police chief, proud. Suddenly, a commotion near the campus bookstore caught her attention. A group of students had gathered, their voices filled with excitement and awe. Curiosity piqued, Aria approached the crowd. At the center stood a tall, enigmatic figure with piercing eyes and a smirk that could melt hearts.

He was surrounded by admirers, effortlessly charming them with his wit and charisma. Aria rolled her eyes, unimpressed. She had no time for playboys, especially those who thrived on attention. As she turned to leave, their eyes met. His smirk widened, and he made his way toward her. "Hey there," he said smoothly. "I don't think we've met." Aria crossed her arms, unimpressed. "And I intend to keep it that way."

He chuckled, clearly amused by her resistance. "Feisty. I like that." She narrowed her eyes. "And I don't like you. So, if you'll excuse me." As she walked away, he called out, "I'm Kael, by the way. Kael Romanov." The name sent a chill down her spine. Romanov-a name synonymous with the city's most notorious mafia family. Aria quickened her pace, determined to stay as far away from him as possible. But fate had other plans.