**PROLOGUE**

London's city lights twinkled like diamonds against the night sky as Ace Ryder stood at his penthouse window, gaze drifting towards the Thames. His phone buzzed, breaking the spell – a text from his father, Victor Ryder:

"Ace, return to Manhattan immediately. Our family's empire needs your leadership. Your absence has been... tolerated long enough."

Ace's jaw clenched. Three years in London, building his own ventures, free from his father's suffocating grasp – now, Victor summoned him back like a puppeteer pulling strings.

Ace stepped off the private jet and onto Manhattan soil, the humid summer air enveloping him like a warm embrace. His hometown – New York City – sparkled before him, familiar skyscrapers piercing the sky.

A sleek black SUV waited on the tarmac, driver holding a sign with his initials "AR". Ace nodded in acknowledgement and slid into the cooled leather interior.

As they glided through Manhattan streets, nostalgia washed over him – memories of childhood laughter in Central Park, teenage nights exploring Greenwich Village, and family dinners at their Upper East Side mansion.

The SUV turned onto his family's street – Ryder Estate's grandeur filled the window – imposing stone façade, manicured lawn, and fountain sparkling like diamonds.

His mother, Catherine Ryder, stood in the entrance, elegant smile warm with emotion – "Ace, welcome home. We've missed you."

His father, Victor Ryder, emerged behind her – expression stern, eyes narrowing slightly – "Ace. We have much to discuss. The empire won't transition itself."

Ace's instincts tightened – he knew this homecoming came with strings – and potentially, a price for his freedom.

Ace's tone remained neutral –

"Directly to the point, Father –

what exactly needs transitioning, and why now?

Victor Ryder's expression turned even graver –

"Our investors grow restless, Ace. Ryder Corporation's stock dips slightly with each passing quarter...

without a clear successor, they question my leadership."

Catherine Ryder intervened softly –

"Ace, dear, your father means –

he's considering retirement.

The board wants you as his obvious replacement."

Victor's eyes narrowed at his wife's gentle tone –

"Catherine, let me finish. Ace needs to understand –

this isn't request, it's requirement.

Our family's legacy, fortune – everything –

depends on him taking reins."

Ace leaned against the foyer table, arms crossed –

"A requirement, Father?

I've built my own ventures in London –

successful ones. Why abandon those for Ryder Corp?"

Victor slammed his fist on the nearby console –

"Because, Ace Ryder, you are my son –

my only heir – and this is your duty!

London ventures will be sold or managed remotely.

Decision final. You have 48 hours to accept."

I'll consider my... duties.

Excuse me, I need air –

and to think outside this suffocating mansion."

But before he reached the door, Victor's voice stopped him –

"Ace, wait. There's something else..."

Ace turned back, curiosity sparking –

"What else, Father?"

Victor's expression crumbled, revealing deep lines and sunken eyes –

"My doctor's words, Ace... not mine.

I'm terminally ill – stage 4 cancer.

48 hours isn't for negotiation –

it's because my time runs out quickly."

Catherine Ryder sobbed softly behind him,

confirming the devastating truth.

Ace felt like punched in the gut –

his rebellious stance deflated instantly.

He approached his father slowly –

"Father... why hide this?"

Victor's voice barely above whisper –

"Didn't want pity or softening your resolve.

But you must take Ryder Corp reins, Ace –

ensure our legacy, protect our family...

after I'm gone."

Ace nodded slowly, resolve shifting –

"I'll do it, Father.

I'll take over Ryder Corp.

For you, Mother – our family."

Victor's eyes welled up with tears –

"Thank you, Ace.

My son,

you've given me peace."

**Ace Ryder: The Enigmatic Playboy**

Ace Ryder embodies the essence of captivating arrogance – his 6'2" frame chiseled to perfection, as if carved by gods. His jet black hair is always impeccably styled, framing piercing black eyes that seem to bore into souls. Sharp jawlines, full lips, and a small scar above his left eyebrow add to his rugged allure. His broad shoulders and athletic build make him a commanding presence, drawing admiring glances wherever he goes.

His attitude is equally captivating – confident bordering on cocky(anger issues. Almost everything makes Ace angry), with a wit sharp enough to cut down anyone daring to cross him. Ace possesses an unapologetic ego, knowing his wealth, intelligence, and devastating good looks make him virtually untouchable. He can be ruthlessly cold-hearted, prioritizing business and pleasure over emotions – a trait that has earned him a reputation as a heartbreaker.

Rudeness comes naturally to Ace; he has little patience for incompetence or weakness. His tongue can be lacerating, leaving scars deeper than physical wounds. Yet, paradoxically, people are drawn to his fiery personality like moths to flames – helpless against the Ace Ryder charm. Women swoon, men aspire – all captivated by his enigmatic aura. Resistance is futile; Ace Ryder always gets what he wants, when he wants it. His mantra? "I am the storm – bow down or get swept away."

**The Tycoon Meets Mafia**

Ace Ryder's life was forged in the crucible of power, wealth, and secrecy. As the sole heir of Victor Ryder's business empire, Ace stood poised to inherit billions – but his family's influence extended far beyond corporate boardrooms.

On his father's side, the Ryders were self-made tycoons. Victor Ryder built his fortune through savvy investments, ruthless deal-making, and strategic alliances. Ryder Corporation dominated industries from real estate to finance, earning Victor the nickname "The King of Manhattan."

However, Ace's mother, Catherine Ryder (née Morano), hailed from a different world – one shrouded in mystery and feared by many. Her family, the Moranos, were entrenched in the American Mafia, specifically the notorious Five Families of New York City.

Catherine's father, Godfather Marco Morano, ruled the Morano crime family with iron fists and cunning strategy. Though he kept his daughter sheltered from the family business, Catherine inherited his intelligence, charm, and ruthless pragmatism.

Victor Ryder and Marco Morano formed an unlikely alliance – a mutually beneficial partnership merging legitimate business with organized crime interests. This clandestine arrangement propelled Ryder Corporation's rapid growth while expanding Morano family influence.

Ace Ryder, with tycoon and mafia bloodlines converging in his veins, embodied the perfect storm of power, intelligence, and cunning. His future seemed destined for greatness – or devastating consequences – as he navigated the treacherous landscape of his family's dual empires.

(Victor Ryder - Father, Tycoon, Ryder Corporation CEO)

(Catherine Ryder (née Morano) - Mother, Mafia heiress)

(Marco Morano - Maternal Grandfather, Morano Crime Family Godfather)

(The is what Ace and Lia would look like in an ime form. She is just a little shorter)

Lia Richard's life was intricately woven into the fabric of the Ryder family's privileged world. Her mother, Evelyn Richard, had been the Ryder's loyal and trusted head maid for nearly two decades – 19 years of dedicated service earned her a permanent place in their hearts.

Evelyn's devotion and discretion made her indispensable; Victor and Catherine Ryder relied on her for everything from managing the household staff to handling sensitive family matters. Over time, the Ryders embraced Evelyn as a beloved member of their extended family – and by extension, her daughter Lia.

Lia grew up playing alongside Aliyah Ryder in the mansion's lavish playgrounds and exploring Manhattan together during summer breaks from school. The Ryder family treated Lia like a surrogate daughter – spoiling her with affection, gifts, and opportunities normally reserved for their biological child.

Victor would often say, "Lia's as much our daughter as Aliyah; Evelyn's loyalty and love have earned them both a permanent place in our family."

Catherine added, "We've watched Lia blossom into a brilliant and beautiful young woman – Aliyah's sister in every way except blood."

Aliyah herself cherished Lia as a true sibling – sharing secrets, dreams, and adventures together. The sisters' bond strengthened as they navigated adolescence and young adulthood side by side.

Lia's life was filled with:

* Annual family vacations around the world

* Insider access to Ryder Corporation events and galas

* Unconditional love and support from the entire Ryder family

As Lia approached adulthood, her path seemed intertwined with the Ryders' – but would she forge her own destiny or remain.

**Lia's Dynamic Personality & Stunning Looks**

**Physical Charm:**

* **Pretty Face:** Delicate features, smooth skin, and a adorable smile

* **Big Brown Eyes:** Warm, expressive, and fringed with luscious lashes – melting hearts!

* **Cute Overall Appearance:** Petite frame, button nose, and plump lips – irresistible cuteness!

**Multi-Faceted Personality:**

**Kindness Overflows:** Empathetic listener, gentle soul, and caring friend – always willing to help.

**Mean Streak Unleashed:** Rarely seen fierce side – sharp tongue and blunt honesty when provoked or defending loved ones.

3.**Attitude:** Confident, outspoken, and unapologetically herself – always speaking her mind!

**People Notice:**

Lia's unique blend of kindness, mean streak, and attitude makes her:

* Fascinating to be around

* Loyal friend to those she trusts

* Formidable opponent to those who cross her.

.

Lia's Deadly Curves:

Lia's 5'2" frame belied a stunning secret: curves that could stop hearts and spark desires.

**Her Voluptuous Assets:**

* **Full Bust:** Plump, rounded contours inviting admiration

* **Tiny Waist:** Narrow, defined silhouette highlighting her curves

* **Luscious Hips:** Softly rounded hips and buttocks – a masterpiece of nature

* **Shapely Thighs:** Smooth, toned legs completing her irresistible physique

**The Surprising Twist:**

Lia rarely showcased her curves openly – preferring:

* **Demure Dresses:** Falling just above the knee, hinting at her figure

* **High Necklines:** Drawing attention to her face while keeping her bustline subtle

* **Loose Tops:** Casually draped over her hips, teasing glimpses of her shape

**Only Close Ones Knew:**

Aliyah and a select few saw glimpses of Lia's curves during:

* **Sleepovers:** Lazy mornings in comfy shorts and tanks

* **Beach Trips:** Bikinis revealing her stunning physique to trusted friends

* **Private Moments:** Rare instances when Lia let her guard down

Lia's hidden curves added to her mysterious allure – a secret only revealed to those she trusted.

**Intrigue in the Courtyard**

Ace stood at his bedroom window, lost in thought as memories of his family and childhood flooded his mind.

He walked outside into the night air, gazing down at the courtyard below – and his eyes landed on two figures:

* His sister, Aliyah Ryder – recognizable with her long blonde hair

* A petite girl with long dark hair, big brown eyes, and a cute smile – **A COMPLETE STRANGER TO HIM**

Ace's curiosity piqued – who was this girl walking alongside his sister like they were close friends?

He thought to himself:

"Aliyah's grown up, but this girl... I don't recall her from my life here before London. Must have met her while I was away."

His mind racing with questions:

* Who is she?

* How does she know Aliyah so well?

**Family Dynamic unfolds**

Lia and Aliyah entered the mansion, still chatting about their college adventures. Aliyah's curiosity about her brother's arrival shifted to concern – "Where is Ace?" she wondered.

Catherine Ryder, Aliyah's mother, greeted them warmly in the foyer. She mentioned that Ace had already left with his father, Victor Ryder, for a meeting – "A business discussion that couldn't wait" was her brief explanation.

Aliyah's eyes narrowed slightly, accepting her mother's words. Lia observed the family interaction with interest, still unaware of the brother who had slipped away just moments before.

Meanwhile, upstairs, Victor Ryder had indeed taken Ace to the Ryder Corporation headquarters for a crucial briefing "Preparing him for his future role" while downstairs, Lia continued to mingle with her closest friend Aliyah, oblivious to the powerful family dynamics unfolding around her.

"Lia" Mrs Ryder called Lia..while she was walking.

Lia turned around and replied with "yes, Mrs Ryder"

"Please, Darling it's not Mrs Ryder call me Cats. Lia and Aliyah-" Aliyah was eating when she turned around

"Mum?" She replied.

"You guys need to get ready because later we are going for the dinner". Mrs Ryder tells them.

"Mrs- I mean Auntie cats. I don't-" Mrs Ryder cut Lia off. One thing about Mrs Ryder she hates No for an answer.

"Lia. You know the drill. I don't take no for an answer" Mrs Ryder says winking at Lia. "Girls come on go get ready" She adds chasing them away.

Lia and Aliyah run upstairs

"See you inna few". Aliyah says before going to her room.

Lia has a bath and comes out from the bathroom and gets ready. Looking at the outfit that Mrs Ryder placed on the bed for her, she thought 'Mrs Ryder really does have good taste'.

**Stunning Duo Unveiled**

Lia slipped into the black evening gown chosen by Mrs. Ryder

* The long, sleek dress hugged her curves tantalizingly

* A daring slit on the left side revealed a hint of her toned leg

* Silver heels elevated her petite frame, making her legs appear endless

Her makeup transformation was dramatic:

* Smoky eyes – dark grey and black shades blended perfectly

* Bold, dark red lipstick accentuated her plump lips

Lia's dark hair cascaded down her back like silk, completing her sophisticated look.

Meanwhile, Aliyah stood nearby, mirroring Lia's glamour in her own way:

* Her similar gown was a greyish-silver hue, complementing Lia's black perfectly

* Gold jewelry delicate necklace, earrings, and bracelet added luxurious touches to Aliyah's overall glow

* Her blonde hair styled in loose waves framed her face beautifully

Together, the two friends exuded captivating elegance – Lia's edgy sophistication paired impeccably with Aliyah's soft glamour.

As they descended the stairs, the Ryder family's eyes widened in appreciation – especially one person who had just returned from his meeting with his father... Ace.

"I will see you at the dinner tonight". Aces father says before they went to their rooms to get ready.

**Elegant Arrival Amidst Warning**

As Lia and Aliyah descended the stairs, their glamorous appearance drew admiration from the Ryder family –

Mrs. Ryder's eyes sparkled with delight, turning to Evelyn, Lia's mother, who stood discreetly behind them – "Evelyn, don't you think our girls look breathtaking tonight?"

Evelyn smiled politely, her expression hinting at a prior conversation with Lia – Lia had been warned to "be on her absolute best behaviour tonight" before being allowed to attend this event with Aliyah.

With that understood, Aliyah turned to Lia and suggested they drive together – Lia eagerly agreed. They slipped into Aliyah's sleek black GTI and sped away.

Arriving at the venue, they jumped out of the car, eyes widening at the stunning surroundings lush gardens and twinkling string lights surrounded an outdoor pavilion.

One of the Ryder family's bodyguards promptly took the GTI to park, allowing the girls to follow Mrs. Ryder towards the outdoor area.

She led them through the beautifully landscaped grounds, the soft glow of lanterns illuminating their path, until they reached an elegant outdoor setting tables set with fine china and crystal glasses sparkled beneath the starry sky.The Ryder parents, Victor and Catherine, already mingled with guests

Ace stood nearby, his gaze drifting back to Lia.'It's the same girl that was with Aliyah'

"Ace" A familiar voice called him. Ace turned around to see Zena. Zena and Ace were friends and she liked Ace but never told him. "Zena, what a surprise" Ace said and they both took a walk.

**Dangerous Undercurrents Revealed**

Ace stood engaged in conversation with Zena, a ruggedly handsome associate of his father's, yet his attention kept drifting back to Lia – her smoky eyes and dark red lips mesmerized him.

Their gazes met briefly, but Lia ignored him, turning away with a subtle smile. Ace's curiosity intensified.

Meanwhile, Aliyah whispered to Lia, "Let's slip away for some fresh air," and they discreetly exited the crowded area, disappearing into the lush gardens.

As they strolled along winding paths lined with manicured hedges, Lia's eyes widened, taking in the opulent scene – suits, diamonds, and designer gowns surrounded them.

She leaned into Aliyah, voice low and amused, "Is this a mafia-themed party or something?"

Aliyah's expression turned serious, her voice barely above a whisper – "It's not themed, Lia... this IS the mafia. My family's involved with some powerful organizations."

Lia's smile froze, replaced by alarm – she had unknowingly entered a dangerous world. Her grip on Aliyah's arm tightened as she whispered back "What have your parents gotten me into?"Suddenly, twigs snapped behind them footsteps approaching.

"Aliyah. After a very long time. How are you?" A voice said. Turning around they saw Rafael. "Oh, Hello and goodbye". Aliyah say and they both ran away. Aliyah hated Rafael and Lia didn't even know who he was.

"Girls come with me". Mrs Ryder called them and they left with her. They went to the toilets and Mrs Ryder pulled out 2 guns. Seeing this Lia's eyes widen in shock. "No need to be scared". She assured them. "show me your right leg". She told Lia. Slipping the gun, With a strap which she first put on her leg. "This is for safety girls.Do not fear to use it". She told them and the girls nodded. She put Aliyah's gun on too.

After all it was a mafia party. So trouble could be anywhere.

Leaving the bathroom they met another guy and his name was Kyle. Aliyah liked Kyle. "Hello beautiful ladies". He said with his gaze on Aliyah. "I'll leave you 2 alone. See u around" Lia said before leaving.

Lia walked back outside behind everything that was happening. Looking at the sky she bumped into someone-"Hey, watch where you going-" She looked up to catch Ace looking down at her. She smiled at him but alk he did was ignore her and walk pass telling her "Open your eyes".

"What an asshole" Lia said and Ace heard what she had said.

Turning back he asked "Who is an asshole?"

"uh? No I was-" Lia was trying to explain when he walked towards her standing right by her he looked down.

(She was short) "You what? Do you have any idea of who I am?" He asked her.

"Uh no? I don't want to know who you are either". She said to him looking up.

'She has a nerve to call me an asshole for sombody so short like her'. Ace thought to himself.

"Oh really? Listen her short ass young lady-". Lia cut Ace off. One thing Ace hated is when someone interrupts him when he is speaking. Or even cut him off.

"Don't call me short. It's not my fault you stood in the way". She told him and Lia hated when somebody called her short.

"Oh yeah? So did I tell you to count the stars and walk?" He asked her, annoyed at her.

"listen here Mr, You must have saw me walking and you could have moved. So why didn't you?" She asked him.

"Fun fact. I didn't. Apologise-". She interrupted him again. Ace was really getting any now.

"I will not". She said to him. Grabbing her jaw he looked at her "Do not interrupt me when I speak. Do you get that?"He said. Looking into her eyes, she hit his hand and he let go of her jaw. 'Did I hurt her?' He thought. 'No why should I bother?'

"Don't touch me". She said to him. Flipping her hair in his face before she left from there.

"Some nerve she got". Ace never got this type of treatment from any girl before. It was always the girl flirting and tryna touch him but in this case the girl told him off and called him an asshole.

Lia was walking when sombody started walking behind her. "Can I help you?" She turned around to see it was Rafael.

"Hello, It's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Rafael". He said in his thick Italian accent.

"Hello, I'm Rose". She lied about her name. Lia didn't want anyone to know her name especially this is a mafia party.

"Beautiful name Rose". He said to her. Just in time Aliyah came "Uh? Lia come on". She said dragging her away.

"Stay away from Rafael. He is bad news. Which is why I hate him". She told Lia. Lia now realised why Aliyah ran away from him. However he was good looking. Tall, fair, thick eyebrows, emerald green eyes and very well dressed.

"Girls,please come eat". Mrs Ryder called them. There was 2 separate tables. One for the small ones and one for the adults.

It was a huge table with all types of foods and drinks. Lia and Aliyah sat next to each other while Kyle sat across them. "Mmmm. I see someone staring" Lia said while Aliyah just blushed. Soon after Rafael sat opposite Lia.

"Lia, darling are you okay? Aliyah?". Mrs Ryder went to check up on them.

"Lia?". Rafael said looking at the girl who said her name was Rose.

"Uh. I-" Mrs Ryder spoke for Lia "Yes Rafael Lia.Something you need?". Mrs Ryder asked him.

Rafael was 2nd biggest mafia from Mrs Ryder 's family. He wouldn't dare to speak to her if he knows she is part of them. However he does.

Hours later Lia returned home. Looking at her phone she saw that Rafael liked all her post on instagram. 'How did he find me?' She thought.

on the other side of the house. Ace stood outside by his balcony thinking. 'The nerve she got'

Going to his bed there was an incoming call from an unsaved number. "She really can't leave me alone". He said.

Answering the call. The person on the other side 'baby? are you okay? how's things? going good?' The girl asked.

"Everything is fine". Ace said massaging his temples, annoyed. He had to go through the short girl now his gf.

'I have great news. I have am coming to London next month and hopefully you can introduce me to your family'. The girl said excited.

"we'll see. I'm sleepy I'll call you tmrw bye". He said and cut the call. That was Aces girlfriend. However he wasn't interested in her and because she was always around him he just decided to date her.

(A/N...will correct spelling guys)