Nicolas Serpenti the Crime Boss.

Nicolas sprawled on a large sofa, his posture relaxed yet commanding, as if he owned the entire club. Around him, scantily dressed strippers attended to his every whim, their faces painted with practised smiles.

Upon noticing Dominic approaching, Nicolas's face split into a maniacal grin. He gestured for the girls to leave, his voice smooth yet commanding. "Ladies, give us a moment, will you?"

The strippers quickly dispersed, leaving Nicolas alone as he stood to greet Dominic. "Domi, my friend!" Nicolas exclaimed, spreading his arms wide. "It's been too long."

Dominic released Arette and stepped forward, embracing Nicolas with a strong handshake and a pat on the back. Nicolas had been away on a business trip—the type you don't speak about—for the past six months and had just arrived back.

"Stop exaggerating. It's just been six months. But it's good to see you, though. Nico, I want you to meet Arette," he said, gesturing toward her.