The Return Of The Mafia Lord

Chapter 33

The instant Xavier whispered the name and his grip tightened, the lights in the office abruptly cut out. The entire executive floor plunged into near-total darkness, illuminated only by the faint, distant wash of city light filtering through the large windows.

Ari's initial shock was amplified by the sudden blackness. She tried again, urgently, to twist herself free, but Xavier's grip was an anchor, fueled by a terror that only existed in his nightmare. It was useless. There was no way to be free unless he released her willingly.

A strange, involuntary calm began to settle over her. She was trapped, yes, but in the arms of a shattered man, not an attacker. She took a slow, deep breath and relaxed into his hold.

The warmth radiating from him was intense, a stark contrast to the cool marble floor beneath them. She found her head settling naturally near his shoulder. He smelled of expensive cologne, and a clean, fresh sweat—a scent that, surprisingly, was not unpleasant.

Her cheeks fe