86.

Ricardo's POV

Power was the most satisfying thing to ever exist, and I had zero doubts about that.

As I stood there, gazing down at the sprawling city of New York from the window of my luxurious suite, power was all I could think of.

It was a sight to behold; nothing could ever match the joy that coursed through me, knowing that everything above and below this land was mine. This city, with its towering structures and bustling streets, belonged to me and no one else. A sinister smile curled upon my lips as I enjoyed the control I exerted over every inch of this metropolis.

Aiden could never dream of having this much power.

But then, like a sharp dagger, thoughts of Aiden and Lily pierced through the veil of my triumph. My smile faded slowly.

Those two! They thought they had the upper hand now!

The memory of our last encounter flooded my mind, and a searing pain shot through my head, reminding me of the blow Aiden had delivered with the butt of his gun.

I could still remember very viv