The city was finally quiet. For the first time in months, the streets below Hadia's penthouse were washed clean by the relentless rain. The empire she had carved from blood and betrayal lay at her feet — hers alone.
She leaned against the shattered window, staring at the city lights, memories of fire, bullets, and betrayal flashing in her mind. Every victory felt hollow without Zain beside her — and yet, he had survived, just as reckless as always, following her into the storm.
"I can't believe you're alive," she whispered, barely audible.
"I told you, I never leave," Zain said, stepping into the room, water dripping from his hair, clothes clinging to his toned frame. His eyes were stormy, fierce, yet soft only for her.
Her pulse raced. "You… you stayed."
"I always stay," he said, moving closer. His hand brushed hers, sending a jolt through her entire body. "No matter what."
Aroohi entered quietly behind them, watching the two with mixed emotions — relief, fear, and a pang of jealousy. She stepped forward."Hadia… Zain… you really survived this?" she asked, voice trembling.
Hadia smirked, dangerous and mischievous. "Of course. Next time, don't try to protect me," she teased, brushing her fingers against Zain's chest.
Zain's voice dropped low, almost a growl. "I don't protect. I claim."
Ahil, recovering from his wounds and the humiliation of his previous defeat, arrived unexpectedly, his eyes dark with fury and disbelief."You think you can just take everything I built?" he spat. "This empire is mine!"
Hadia turned slowly, dagger in hand, eyes blazing. "It's ashes now, Ahil. And so are you."
The tension was unbearable — lovers, enemies, siblings, and rivals all in one room, hearts racing, guns and knives hidden but ready.