Cruel Beauty's Veil

PETROV

Once upon a time, on Valentine’s Day, which felt more like a day of doom, Petrov found himself at a masquerade ball, struck by a deal. The anonymity provided by the masks seemed safer for him, concealed in his black and silver guise. But as he reached to tousle his hair, he realized it was stiffened with gel and cosmetics, causing annoyance to simmer within him. Disliking the formality, he longed to rid himself of the suffocating tie and jacket, yet he remained, needing to blend in with the crowd.

Surrounded by his men at the bar, amidst the cacophony of laughter and chatter, Petrov observed a young woman who caught his eye. Tall and graceful, she wore a golden mask that obscured her face, her black hair cascading in curls adorned with feathers. Her attire, a sleek black dress, accentuated her figure, drawing his attention further. Intrigued, he watched as her companion, perhaps her date, whispered in her ear, his possessive gesture causing her to flinch.

As the man departed, Petrov waited, his gaze fixed on her. When her eyes met his, he approached, a smirk playing on his lips. Engaging her in conversation, he observed her unease, pondering whether it stemmed from nervousness or recognition of him. Despite his hidden identity, he was drawn to her, his curiosity piqued by her presence amidst the opulence of the ball.

Their exchange revealed her discomfort with her date, Matteo Constantino, a familiar name to Petrov, synonymous with unsavory activities. As Matteo returned, Petrov withdrew, though not before asserting his dominance in Matteo's presence. Leaving her intrigued, he departed, focusing on his objectives for the evening.

Later, as events unfolded in the parking lot, Petrov received a call from his cousin, Alessandro, conveying a message in coded language. The situation escalated into violence, culminating in a silenced shot and the unexpected appearance of the woman from the ball, her amber eyes wide with shock.

In that moment, Petrov realized the complications her presence brought. Having a witness was always troublesome.