The news played softly on the television in Viktor’s office.
The screen flickered with images of flashing police lights and yellow tape.
The reporter’s voice filled the air, calm and professional, completely unaware of the storm her words had unleashed.
“Authorities have confirmed the death of Alejandro Cruz, the notorious businessman suspected of running a criminal empire. He was found dead in his study, shot multiple times. So far, there are no suspects. Investigations continue.”
The room went quiet.
Viktor sat at his desk, staring at the screen.
He didn’t blink. He didn’t move.
The cigarette in his hand burned low, smoke curling lazily toward the ceiling.
His second-in-command, Pavel, shifted uncomfortably beside him. “Boss?”
Viktor said nothing.
Another man, Kiril, stepped cl
