Chapter 2 - The Syndicate
I felt the blood completely drain from my face as I stared at the deadly weapon.
I was just a junior data analyst, completely unprepared for a confrontation with the criminal underworld.
"The business arrangement between our families is officially void, Dante," Valeria stated firmly.
Dante stepped closer, his heavy cologne masking the faint, metallic scent of gunpowder.
He looked me up and down with absolute disgust and lingering amusement.
"You really expect me to believe you chose this pathetic corporate drone over a criminal empire?" Dante mocked.
I squeezed Valeria's hand, operating entirely on a sudden surge of protective adrenaline.
"She made her choice, so I suggest you back away," I warned him, trying to keep my voice steady.
Dante's eyes narrowed as he analyzed my facial features in the dim ballroom light.
He suddenly smiled, a terrifying expression that revealed row of perfectly white teeth.
"You have absolutely no idea who you are currently holding hands with, do you?" Dante asked me quietly.
Valeria tried to pull me away, but Dante easily blocked our exit path.
"Your lovely boss is the sole heiress to the most ruthless mafia family on the coast," Dante revealed.
I looked at Valeria, desperately waiting for her to deny the horrifying accusation.
She simply looked away, confirming that the legitimate company I worked for was just a front for organized crime.
May you like
"And it gets much better, Adrián," Dante whispered, stepping so close I could feel his breath.
"Her father is the exact man who ordered the assassination of your parents twenty years ago."
