Chapter 34: Anna Collins stepped softly across the polished dining room beneath the warm….
Chapter 34

Before Voss could establish his position or utter another threat, the temperature in the immediate vicinity plummeted to absolute zero. Alexander stepped seamlessly out of the shadows, materializing directly behind the European warlord. His broad, powerful shoulders entirely blocked the light, casting a long, imposing shadow over the intruder. “Are you attempting to negotiate logistics with my wife in the middle of a ballroom, Kaelen?” Alexander asked. His deep, low voice rolled through the space, the measured pauses striking like a physical blow. Voss took a heavy step backward, his rosy skin paling slightly at the sudden, terrifying proximity of the undisputed king of the underworld. His concealed bodyguards instinctively reached for their hidden weapons. “Hayes,” Voss grunted, attempting to regain his footing. “This is a simple business discussion. A mutually beneficial arrangement. My men are already surrounding this building.” “Does a mutually beneficial arrangement require the intimidation of the woman who owns this city?” Alexander inquired, his cold, perceptive eyes locking onto Voss. The artistic tattoos on his hands flexed as he gently placed his palms on Anna’s waist, claiming her with fierce, proprietary devotion. “I meant no disrespect,” Voss lied, sweat beading on his forehead. “I simply wanted to finalize our new partnership tonight.” “Then we will finalize it in the private gallery,” Alexander commanded smoothly, gesturing toward the heavy oak doors. “Unless you prefer to finalize it on the marble floor in front of these guests.”