Rafael

Her family had always lived at the top. A luxurious home, security, dinners with influential people—all of it seemed normal. Her father was a man whose connections ran deeper than anyone could have imagined. Behind the smiles, the press, and the pompous speeches hid a dangerous web of deals, debt, and power.

She knew her father had enemies, but she had no idea how serious they were. Among those he had once betrayed was Raphael—a man who had risen from nothing and built an empire without outside help. Young, intelligent, and ruthless, he was respected and feared.

When her father cheated him out of a major deal, Rafael didn't make a fuss. He simply disappeared. Everyone thought the conflict was settled. But he was only biding his time.

And one evening, when she went out for a walk in the garden as usual, his men appeared out of nowhere. A scream, rough hands, a bag over her head – and darkness.

She woke up in an unfamiliar place. The air smelled of wood, tobacco, and something precious, barely perceptible. The bag was removed from her, and the first thing she saw was a massive oak table, the soft light of a desk lamp, and a man sitting across from her.

Raphael.

He looked at her calmly, too calmly. There was no anger or pity in his gaze—only cold interest, as if she was not a person but an instrument.

He stood up, came closer, and, looking straight into the eyes, said:

— I wonder... does your father know what the price of betrayal is?