* * *

The air was alive with the hum of bees and the candy scent of jasmine, mingling with the earthy aroma of freshly cut-grass.

I stepped out into the expansive yard of the Lucas property. The compound was like a kingdom of its personal, a fortress of opulence nestled inside the coronary heart of town. My gaze swept over the huge expanse of our yard oasis, a sanctuary shielded from prying eyes by towering partitions and dense foliage. It was a haven of tranquility that by no means failed to appease my weary soul.

The centerpiece of the oasis was the sprawling backyard, vibrant colours, and plush greenery that stretched so far as the attention might see. Blooms of each hue carpeted the bottom. Stone pathways meandered via the backyard like veins, resulting in secluded alcoves and pergolas draped in vines, the right spot for intimate gatherings or quiet reflection. Timber swayed gently within the breeze, their fronds rustling softly as if whispering secrets and techniques to at least one one other.

Within the coronary heart of the backyard stood an imposing fountain, its waters cascading gracefully right into a pristine pool beneath. The sound of trickling water soothed the soul, providing a second of respite from the chaos of the world past our partitions. Across the fountain, statues of marble and bronze stood sentinel, their stoic faces watching over the property with silent vigilance.

I took within the splendor of my environment, and my thoughts drifted to the necessary enterprise at hand.

The Falsettis and the Moroccos had been two of essentially the most highly effective households within the underworld, and deepening an alliance with them was essential for the success of our operations. The wedding of my sisters, Luna, and Gabriella, would function a bridge between our households and their respective heirs, solidifying our bonds and guaranteeing our mutual prosperity for years to come back.

I glanced towards the ornate wrought iron gates on the far finish of the backyard, the place the Falsetti and Morocco delegations would quickly arrive.

Because the appointed hour drew close to, I could not assist however really feel a twinge of apprehension. My sisters had been my most valuable treasures, and the considered parting with them stuffed me with a mixture of satisfaction and sorrow.

Luna, along with her fiery spirit and fascinating smile, and Gabriella, along with her quiet energy and delicate demeanor—they had been the center and soul of our household, and I’d do something to guard them.

They had been no strangers to a world fraught with hazard and the machinations of males. As their brother and underboss to the Lucas Cosa Nostra, it was my responsibility to make sure their security and happiness, regardless of the price.

Luna and Gabriella stood poised and radiant behind us, their magnificence rivaling the celebs.

I stood on the threshold of our property, my posture inflexible, eyes scanning the arrival of black Suburbans as they entered and went via safety clearance.

Subsequent to me, Dameon was silent. He’d allowed me to take over the reins since he was prepping for the transition. As a lot as I by no means needed this place, surprisingly, I felt empowered by my place and assured in my authority.

Imposing figures of the Falsetti and Morocco delegations emerged from their glossy black automobiles. Every step they took exuded confidence and authority, their darkish fits impeccably tailor-made. Their eyes, sharp and calculating, swept over the environment, lacking nothing as they assessed the state of affairs with hawk-like gazes.

The Falsettis, with their onerous options and steely demeanor, exuded auras of ruthlessness, very like our personal. The don, Lorenzo Falsetti, approached along with his son and underboss Cesare Falsetti. Each males exuded an air of quiet menace.

Reverse them, Giovanni Morocco, the don of the Moroccos and the underboss, Luca Morocco, radiated energy and status.

“I’ve waited for at the present time, Dameon,” Giovanni mentioned. “For a very long time my son has favored your daughter, Gabriella.”

“Then it’s best to thank my son Dominic. He’s the one who got here up with this concept and he would be the one to dealer it.”

Giovanni’s brows rose and he nodded towards me. “Why abruptly, Dominic?”

“To be frank, Giovanni, it has come to our consideration that there are whispers within the underworld. As a result of the Black Rose makes use of our signature, a few of the households have change into cautious of us. Usually, this may be seen as traitorous to have allies talking in poor health of us. Nevertheless, due to the circumstances, we’ve determined to supply not solely peace however safety to you—the Morocco and Falsetti households. To solidify this, we collect right here in good religion and provide two of our most valuable jewels, Luna, and Gabriella Lucas. As this can tighten our bonds and our allegiances. And now could be the one time to strike this deal.”

They stared at me, then glanced at Dameon, then to Luna and Gabriella.

Smiles cornered their lips as they nodded. Giovanni held out his hand.

“You will have a deal.”

11

Penelope

Three weeks later

I stepped into the opulent bridal boutique. The scent of contemporary flowers and materials enveloped me, sending pleasure shivering down my backbone. At present was the day I had been dreaming of since I used to be slightly lady—the day I’d select the robe that may remodel me into a phenomenal bride.

My coronary heart fluttered with anticipation as I took within the array of luxurious materials and beautiful designs displayed earlier than me.

“Welcome, Penelope,” a voice greeted me warmly, and I turned to see the elegant determine of Mrs. De Luca, the famend marriage ceremony planner who had been entrusted with bringing my imaginative and prescient to life. Dominic mentioned she was the most effective within the underworld, and solely essentially the most distinguished brides had the luxurious of her companies. Her eyes sparkled with real delight as she approached, her swish actions imbued with an air of sophistication.

Supply: www.seynovel.com