King

You were finishing up a shoot for a glossy magazine. You were used to attention—but not this kind.

A black limousine was waiting for you at the studio exit. The door opened, and a low voice said:

• Miss, we have an offer you can't refuse.

Inside the limo, she was met by Ray, the head of the city's most influential mafia family. His gaze slid over your face, as if assessing every feature.

"You are beautiful," he said without preamble. "And smart. I need someone who can penetrate where my people cannot."

You clutched your bag. You knew who he was. You knew that refusing could cost you your life. But agreeing would have been like jumping into the abyss.

• What do you want from me?

Ray pulled out a photograph. It showed the Minister of Finance dining at a private club.

"Tomorrow you will sit at his desk. And bring me what's in his inside pocket."

You wanted to object, but his hand lay on your wrist - cold, hard as steel.

"Don't worry. If everything goes smoothly, you'll receive enough money to support ten careers like yours. If not... well, let's just say I have ways to motivate you."

The limo pulled up outside your house. Ray handed over a business card with just one number.

— Call anytime. And yes... tomorrow at eight. A black Mercedes will be waiting at the entrance.