The atmosphere shifted from calm to something darker, and even the onlookers who knew our history could sense the tension in the air.
Sokolov’s hatred for me still burned like a consuming fire despite his attempts to play it cool. I didn’t give a fuck about his hate; it wasn’t my fault that his ex-wife enjoyed my dick a little more than she did his. This was ages ago, and it didn’t mean anything to me—it was just another reckless indulgence.
Clearly, Lucian Sokolov still hadn’t let go of the pain and humiliation that made him a laughing stock in certain circles.
The second he began spreading the rumor that I had a woman in my mansion, one I intended to engage, I knew what his plan was. It was part of the reason I married Scarlett andmade her mine—that way, I’d keep her safe from Sokolov’s clutches.
The man was hungry for revenge and would do anything to get it—including going after my wife. The mere thought of his filthy hands on her made my blood boil.
“What’re you doing here, Sokolov?” I asked, my scowl deepening.
“It’s a free country,” he answered, his voice laced with venom. “I can go wherever I want. Besides, you’re not the only one who was invited.”
I hesitated for a second before tightening my hold around Scarlett’s waist. “Come on, let’s go.”
“What’s the matter, Tarasov?” He grabbed my arm, his grip firm and unyielding. “Why the hurry? The night’s still young.”
I glared at him, my brows furrowing to accentuate the frown on my face. “Let go, Sokolov,” I growled, warning him as I glanced down at his fingers around my arm.
“Or else what?” he replied with the same tone. “What’re you gonna do, Tarasov?”
For the next few seconds, it was as though time itself stood frozen, and everyone else’s breath was hitched, unsure what would happen next.
Out of nowhere, Sergei stepped forward, his hand buried underneath his coat, ready to withdraw his gun. “Everything alright, Boss?” he asked me, his blazing eyes fixed on the enemy.
Sokolov’s lieutenant also stepped in front of his master and reached for his weapon.
The peace of this gala hung on a thin thread that was about to snap at any moment.
I could almost hear the sound of Scarlett’s beating heart; she was afraid a gun battle was about to erupt like a fuckin’volcano. As much as I would like to put a bullet in Sokolov’s head, I couldn’t endanger my wife’s life.
The bastard had nothing to lose should a gun fight break out right now. I did. And because I wasn’t willing to gamble Scarlett’s safety, I couldn’t afford to act recklessly.
His men had all drawn their weapons, as had mine, and now the whole event was at a standstill. The live band on stage stopped performing, and a dreadful silence fell across the hall.
All eyes were on us, and the guests were anxious—afraid, unsure of their safety.
“Gentlemen, gentlemen, please.” Alderman stepped out from the crowd, a wide smile playing on his lips. “This is a party; there’s absolutely no need for violence.” His gaze shifted across the two of us.
Sokolov hesitated before letting go of my arm and signaling his men to stand down. I gave Sergei a subtle nod, and he took a step back—still on high alert.
Sokolov cleared his throat and adjusted the tie around his neck. “Apologies for the interruption!” he said, addressing the crowd with spread out arms. “Please, carry on.”
The host’s voice boomed through the microphone as he enticed the guests with a few dry jokes, distracting them from the just-avoided chaos.
Gradually, they all returned to whatever they were doing—the music came back on, and the soft hum of conversations filled the air again.
“Scarlett, is it?” Sokolov said, his eyes pinned on her.
“Keep her name out of your mouth,” I warned him.
He chuckled lightly. “I find it funny how you’re seriously protecting what’s yours like you didn’t….” His voice trailed off into silence before his scowl deepened, and he leaned in. “Tell me, Tarasov, how long do you think it’ll take me to have my revenge?”
I mirrored his position and whispered through gritted teeth, “Touch a hair on her head, and they’ll never find your body.”
His lips twisted into a mischievous smirk. “Watch your back, Tarasov.” He patted my shoulder and walked away, whistling like he hadn’t just pissed me off.
After he left, Scarlett let out a sigh of relief, as if she’d been holding her breath this whole time. “What was that about?”
