Zara stared at her reflection — a stranger in a blood-red evening gown.
The silk hugged her curves like a second skin, the plunging neckline doing nothing to ease her nerves.
A soft knock.
Leonardo stepped into the dressing room, black tux crisp, expression unreadable.
His eyes flicked over her, pausing at the diamond pendant resting at her throat.
"You clean up well," he said, voice low.
Zara met his gaze in the mirror.
"I didn't dress for you."
A slow smirk curved his lips.
"Of course not."
> System Scan: Proximity Threat — Low
Leonardo walked over, taking a cufflink from the vanity.
"Tonight is a charity gala. Smile. Hold my arm. Play the role."
She turned, facing him.
"And if I don't?"
He leaned in — close enough for her to feel the heat of his breath.
"Then I'll remind you… of the consequences."
Zara's heart thudded.
She forced a smirk.
"You really enjoy this control thing, don't you?"
Leonardo straightened, buttoning his jacket.
"Control keeps people alive in my world, Zara."
> System Notification: New Mission — Survive the Gala.
The limousine ride was silent.
At the gala entrance, flashbulbs exploded as they stepped onto the marble steps.
Leonardo's hand slid around her waist — firm, possessive.
Zara stiffened… but didn't pull away.
> System Update: Public Perception — Married Couple Activated.
They walked into a sea of power-hungry elites, masked in smiles and polished lies.
"You belong in this world now," Leonardo murmured against her ear.
Zara smiled sweetly for the cameras.
"Then I hope you enjoy having me… husband."
His smirk didn't falter.
But his grip on her waist tightened.
And Zara knew — the real game had begun.