Shadows of Devotion

Chapter 9: introductions

ADRIAN

The night hummed with energy, an underlying current of power and deals made in whispers. I stood at the edge of the grand ballroom, the air thick with the scent of wealth and ambition. Tonight, however, the room didn't hold my focus it was the woman standing beside me, her hand resting lightly on my arm.

Serefina.

She was a vision in red , a dress that clung to her figure with an elegance that demanded attention. Her dark hair cascaded in loose waves, framing the strength in her features. But there was a tension in her posture, a resistance simmering just beneath the surface.

This was her first introduction into my world not as some temporary companion, but as my wife. Pakhan's wife. And that title, whether she realized it or not, came with a level of protection that made her untouchable.

I adjusted the cufflinks on my shirt, my eyes scanning the room for any sign of trouble. Not that I expected any tonight. No one in their right mind would challenge me, especially now that Serefina was under my protection.

I leaned down slightly, my lips brushing her ear as I spoke softly. "Relax, malyshka. No one would dare cross you tonight. Not with me by your side."

Her eyes flickered up to meet mine, sharp as ever. "That's what worries me," she whispered, the fire in her voice undeniable.

I smirked. She was still fighting this, but that's what drew me to her. Serefina wasn't someone to be controlled or tamed, and I wouldn't want her any other way.

The crowd parted as we moved further into the room, eyes discreetly following us, calculating. This wasn't just an introduction for her; it was a statement. Serefina was no longer just a woman in the shadows. She was under my name, my protection and anyone who crossed her would face me.

I felt her hesitation as we approached a group of men powerful men, players in this city. They greeted me with nods of respect, though their attention quickly shifted to her.

"Gentlemen," I began, my voice low but commanding, "I'd like to introduce my wife, Serefina."

The words hung in the air like a declaration, and I could feel her stiffen beside me. She wasn't used to this, wasn't accustomed to being displayed like a prize, but she held her ground. Her chin lifted slightly, her eyes sharp, but polite.

One of the men Vladik, an old associate extended his hand toward Serefina. "A pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Petrov."

But before she could even react, I stepped in front of her, placing a possessive hand on her waist, pulling her closer to me. My voice was low, barely above a whisper, but the authority in it was unmistakable. "She doesn't shake hands, Vladik. She's my wife. You address her as such."

The men exchanged glances, their expressions shifting from curiosity to respect. The message was clear. Serefina was untouchable. I would not allow anyone to see her as anything less than mine.

The rules in this world were clear. Touching the wife of a Pakhan was not only a breach of protocol it was a death sentence.

Her eyes widened slightly at my actions, but she didn't protest. Instead, I felt her relax ever so slightly against me, acknowledging the bond we shared.

I turned back to her, offering a soft smile. "Are you alright?"

She nodded, the fire still sparking in her gaze. "I'm fine. Just... surprised."

"Good. I expect you to be treated with the respect you deserve."

As the night dragged on, I watched her from the corner of my eye, how she carried herself in conversation, how she read the room. She was learning, adapting. It wasn't in her nature to be submissive, and I respected that. But what she didn't understand was that this world would take advantage of any weakness. And showing resistance? That could be perceived as weakness if not handled carefully.