The day had been endless. Eight hours straight in the Financial Command Center, finalizing the legal architecture that would shield the Volkov empire. It felt like I had spent all my mental energy building invisible walls out of tax codes and trust funds. By the time Vladimir and I ascended from the bunker to our private floor, I felt completely drained, yet strangely exhilarated by the success.

We walked into our bedroom, and the difference between the cold, efficient world of the Volkov ...