Chapter 3: A Desperate Choice

I followed Viktor through the opulent hallway, my bare feet sinking into the plush carpet. We entered a grand dining room, and I gasped at the sight before me. A lavish breakfast spread was laid out on the table, with maids standing discreetly to the side.

Viktor pulled out a chair for me, and I sat down, feeling a bit overwhelmed by the extravagance.

The maids began serving us, their movements efficient and silent.

"Is this how you treat all your hostages?" I asked, my voice laced with sarcasm.

Viktor's eyes narrowed slightly, but a hint of amusement played on his lips. "Only the special ones, Ava," he replied, his voice dripping with charm.

As we ate, Viktor engaged me in conversation, asking about my preferences and interests. I found myself opening up to him, sharing stories and laughter. The maids refilled our plates and cups, their presence unobtrusive yet attentive.

The dining room was filled with the warm scent of freshly baked pastries and the soft clinking of silverware. I felt like l'd entered a different world, one of luxury and refinement.

As we finished our meal, Viktor leaned back in his chair, his eyes never leaving mine. "I'm glad you're enjoying your stay, Ava," he said, his voice low and smooth.

I smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude and wonder. "Thank you, Viktor. This is all so...unexpected."

He smiled back, his eyes crinkling at the corners.

"I'm full of surprises, Ava. Get used to it."

I finished my breakfast, my nerves tingling with anticipation. Viktor pushed his chair back and stood up, his eyes gleaming with excitement.

"Shall we begin the game, Ava?" he asked, his voice low and husky.

I nodded, my heart racing. "I'm ready," I said, trying to sound firm despite the butterflies in my stomach.

Viktor smiled, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

"Excellent! Let's start with a little challenge." He clapped his hands together, and Sergei appeared with a small box. "Solve this riddle, Ava," Viktor said, his eyes glinting with excitement. "And you'll be one step closer to uncovering the truth about your family's past."

I took the box, my hands shaking slightly as I opened it. Inside, I found a small piece of paper with a cryptic message scrawled on it: "Where shadows fall, secrets hide. Seek the truth in the darkness."

My mind raced as I tried to decipher the message. What did it mean? And how did it relate to my family's past? I felt a shiver run down my spine as I realized that this game was more than just a simple challenge - it was a journey into the unknown, a journey that could change my life forever.

He stood making his way towards me as his piercing gaze held mine as he took a step closer, his voice low and intense. "Ava, I know you're searching for answers about your family's past, but I must warn you, it's a dangerous path you're on. You're in grave danger, and I can protect you."

I raised an eyebrow, intrigued despite myself.

"What do you mean?"

Viktor's expression turned serious, his eyes burning with conviction. "Your family's empire is built on secrets and lies, Ava. And there are those who will stop at nothing to keep those secrets buried. But I have the power and resources to keep you safe."

I hesitated, torn between my desire for the truth and my wariness of Viktor's motives. But the danger lurking in every shadow was real, and I couldn't deny the attraction between us.

Viktor took another step closer, his voice low and persuasive. "Marry me, Ava. Let me take care of you. I promise you, no harm will come to you under my protection."

My heart raced as I considered his words. I didn't love Viktor not to mention that l've only just met him yesterday, and yet I'm already considering marrying him a man I barely know but I couldn't deny the spark between us. And if marrying him would keep me safe...

"Why should I marry you, Viktor?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.

Viktor's eyes gleamed with triumph. "Because I can give you the one thing you desire most, Ava.

The truth about your family"

My eyes widened as I realized what Viktor was offering. He knew something, something big.

And he was willing to share it with me if I agreed to marry him. But the million dollar question remains, what's in it for him ?

I'm torn apart by conflicting emotions as I consider Viktor's proposal. My mind races with the possibilities - uncovering the secrets about my family, finally understanding the truth.

But at what cost? Marriage to a man I barely know, a man rumored to be ruthless and cunning.

Viktor's eyes seem to pierce through my soul, as if he can read my thoughts. "I know you're thinking about it, Ava," he says, his voice low and persuasive. "And I know you're wondering if you can trust me. But let me tell you, I am a man of my word. I will protect you, and I will give you the truth you so desperately seek."

My heart pounds in my chest as I weigh my options. I know I have to make a decision, and I know it has to be now. Taking a deep breath, I whisper, "Okay, I'll marry you."

Viktor's face erupts into a wide smile,"I knew you'd see it my way," he whispers, his lips brushing against my ear.

As I pull back, I see the glint of triumph in Viktor's eyes. I know l've just made a deal with the devil himself, but I'm willing to do whatever it takes to uncover the truth about my family's secrets. Little do I know what dangers and surprises lie ahead.