_Mckenzie_

The story follows Avery, a young woman who was seeking shelter from the rain, who accidentally bumps into the infamous Alexander Gibson- a handsome billionaire playboy, who happens to be a mafia Lord. This chance encounter sets off a series of events that lead to a forced marriage between Avery and Alex. As Avery navigates her new life, she faces betrayal, confronts violent challenges and discovers unexpected friendships, all while dealing with the complexity of being married to a powerful and dangerous man. The novel combines the elements of romance, drama and suspense.

Torn between passion and power

After unpacking her clothes, she collapsed on the bed, her fingers clutching the hem of her skirt. Her gaze scrutinised the ceiling. Her mind raced- too fast, too much. Everything about this house made her skin crawl and her stomach tightened.

A sigh left her lips. She had to think of a plan.

Avery flinched from the voice. The voice was timid, but in this house, even whispers echoed like shouts. She walked slowly towards the door.

" Can I help you?" she asked with her brows raised.

The red-haired lady stood in front of her with her head bowed.

She fidgeted with her fingers as she told Avery.

Her arms crossed against her chest. Why did she feel she was the bad person?

She followed her to the dining room. Her feet stopped in their tracks. Awe flashed across her face. Has the dining room been this beautiful?

She averted her gaze from the room to the man standing not far from her. Has he always looked this handsome? Avery nodded toward him as she made her way to her seat. She couldn't be distracted by him or his grey sweatpants. That was a dangerous call.

Alex stood near the kitchen doorway, awkwardly wiping his hands on a towel that looked clean. His shirt was creased, sleeves rolled and hair dishevelled.

" You cooked?" she asked before she could stop herself.

He cleared his throat not meeting her eyes at first.

"Yeah, I thought….. maybe you'd like it."

The conversation was followed by an awkward silence.

She didn't move. Just stared at the plate in front of her, steam still curling in the air, like a question mark. Her arms crossed guiding her chest from something sharp to name.

" I didn't poison it," Alex said lightly.

" I didn't say you did." Avery snapped.

Alex looked up. Finally, meet her gaze- and for once he didn't look like the man he was. He looked... unsure.

" Because I needed to try something that wasn't talking."

Her heart clenched before she could stop it. Why was she painted like the villain in this story?

She sighed before she took the first bite. A sharp taste spread in her mouth. She cleared her throat before swallowing it. It tasted different. The quantity of salt was on a different level. But, show how. It tasted real. He cooked for her and that was a first.

Food