The cool night air hit Adrian’s face like a slap as he stepped outside the grand hotel. He followed Ivy down the narrow, dimly lit alleyway that ran behind the venue, away from the prying eyes of the gala. His mind was a whirlwind of thoughts—Victor Draken’s words still echoing in his head like a sinister promise. “I’ve heard a lot about you…” Adrian clenched his fists, his knuckles turning white. He had to keep his composure. The last thing he needed was to get caught up in the web of power and corruption that Victor represented. But the question that haunted him was why. Why was Draken so interested in him? What was it about his inheritance that had drawn the attention of such a dangerous man? Ivy glanced over her shoulder, her expression tense. “We need to get you out of here, Adrian

