Luxury

"Perfect! You were amazing, Ivan. I'd love to work with you again," the photographer gushes, his face lighting up as he hands me his card.

I take it with a gracious smile, but my smirk widens just a fraction as my eyes flicker to the blonde model from earlier. His jaw clenches, and I can almost feel the storm of frustration radiating from him. He thought I'd fail, thought I'd stumble, but instead, I've outshone everyone. Sure, I got in through connections, but that doesn't mean I'm not damn good at what I do. It must feel like a cruel twist of fate to him, but such is life.

With a confident stride, I leave the studio, the weight of the day slipping from my shoulders. The moment I step outside, I spot Maksim leaning casually against a sleek black car. His imposing frame and sharp features scream authority. He's the kind of man who could make someone disappear with a single look, and yet, there's a quiet calm to him that makes him all the more intimidating.

"Ready to go?" Maksim asks, his voice a low rumble, his thick Russian accent adding an extra layer of gravitas.

"Always," I reply, sliding into the backseat as he opens the door for me.

The car glides through the city, the soft hum of the engine the only sound as we weave through traffic. I lean back against the plush leather seats, gazing out at the glowing skyline. The penthouse Zander set me up with comes into view, its glass walls reflecting the city lights like a jewel perched at the top of the world.

When we arrive, Maksim steps out first, his sharp eyes scanning the area before opening my door. "All clear," he says, his tone as professional as ever.

I step out, feeling a sense of satisfaction as I look up at the towering building. Center of the city, highest floor—Zander really outdid himself. This isn't just a place to live; it's a statement, a testament to the new life I'm building.

With a nod to Maksim, I make my way inside, ready to enjoy the view from the top.

With a nod to the doorman, I step into the sleek, marble-floored lobby and head toward the private elevator. Yes, private. No sharing cramped spaces with strangers or waiting endlessly for a ride. The elevator recognizes me immediately, the biometric scanner glowing softly as I press my thumb against it. The doors slide open with a quiet hiss, and I step inside, watching as the city disappears behind the closing doors.

The ascent is smooth and silent, the glowing floor numbers climbing steadily. When I reach the top, the elevator opens to a short, elegant hallway. The walls are lined with modern artwork, and the soft lighting gives the space an air of quiet luxury.

I walk to the end of the hallway and stop in front of the massive double doors that mark the entrance to my penthouse. With a quick press of my thumb against the fingerprint scanner, the locks click open, the sound satisfying in its precision.

The doors swing open, revealing the sprawling space beyond. Everything about this place screams sophistication, from the floor-to-ceiling windows offering a breathtaking view of the city skyline to the sleek, minimalist furniture perfectly arranged across the open living area.

Security here is top-notch, and it shows in every detail—the reinforced doors, the biometric locks, the discreet cameras strategically placed for full coverage. Zander made sure I'd be safe, and I have to admit, it's comforting.

I step inside, letting the doors close softly behind me. This is home now, and with every step, I feel more like I belong at the top of the world.

I go on with my day, humming softly to myself as I stroll through the penthouse, surrounded by the opulence that now defines my life. The plush rugs under my bare feet, the soft glow of ambient lighting reflecting off the polished surfaces—it all feels like a dream. This is the life meant for me, a world of luxury and ease.

After a while, I decide to freshen up. The shower is a spa-like experience, the cascading water soothing my muscles as I let the warmth wash away the remnants of the day. Wrapped in a plush towel, I step out, my hair damp and skin glowing, feeling refreshed and invigorated.

As I wander toward the balcony, the soft hum of the city below calling to me, something catches my eye. Passing by one of the many sleek bookshelves that line the walls, a faint glimmer flickers in the corner of my vision.

I stop, my humming fading as I turn to investigate. Something small, tucked behind a row of books, reflects the light just enough to catch my attention. I reach out, pulling the books aside carefully, revealing the hidden object.