Charles

She was a television journalist—simple, calm, and honed in her craft. Over the years, she'd interviewed many people and was no longer surprised by anything; being shy or afraid to ask a question seemed impossible to her. She couldn't love the profession—her parents had sent her into journalism. Her true passion wasn't on camera, but in the kitchen: she adored cooking.

A new day—another interview. This time—with a mafia boss. The word "boss" alone made her heart beat faster; rumors of his cruelty had long circulated. For the first time in years, she felt uneasy about going on air. Charles wasn't just a local crime boss; his influence extended across the entire country. Even the police kept their distance from him. She didn't understand why he'd agreed to the interview, but she couldn't cancel.

Ten minutes before leaving, she reviewed the questions she'd prepared. Some lines made her shudder—they were frank, almost provocative. It was too late to back out.

She left the dressing room and sat down in a chair in the studio; the room was already set up—lights, cameras—except for him. Finally, the door swung open: Charles appeared in the doorway, accompanied by four silent bodyguards. They remained by the door, and he stepped toward her—and in that moment, he no longer seemed the terrifying monster they had talked about. He was… handsome. This distracted her for a split second, but soon the interview began.

At first, the questions flowed smoothly, like clockwork. Then one of her questions became deeper, more personal.

"Mr. Charles," she asked quietly, "there are rumors that you had one true love. Is it true?"

He leaned back slightly in his chair, a cruel yet soft shade of sadness flitting across his face.

“It’s true,” he said shortly.

— I was told that she died. Is that true?

• Yes. She died,

— Was this because of your actions? Did someone take revenge on you, and she suffered?

• Darling, if you don’t stop sticking your nose where it’s not wanted, I’ll shoot your pretty little skull.

Tall, very handsome, smart, charismatic, with a bad past, mafia boss, cruel, ruthless.