Chapter 1 - The Echoes of the Past
Grace stared at the handwritten note in Luca’s hand, her mind spinning wildly.
It was impossible.
Her father had been dead for twelve years.
She had stood in the rain at an empty memorial service while a priest prayed over a closed, empty casket.
Now, the most dangerous man in New York was telling her that her entire tragedy was a lie.
Luca folded the paper and slipped it back inside his tailored suit jacket.
Titan let out a low, rumbling growl, pressing his massive body tighter against Grace's legs.
Suddenly, a blaring alarm shattered the afternoon silence of the estate.
Red lights began flashing along the high stone walls surrounding the courtyard.
Victor Reyes, the chief of security, pressed a hand to his earpiece, his face draining of color.
"We have a perimeter breach on the west gate," Victor shouted over the sirens.
"Multiple armed vehicles are forcing their way through the barricades."
Luca did not look surprised.
He reached out, his strong hand gripping Grace’s arm with a surprisingly gentle firmness.
"They aren't here for my money, Grace," Luca said, his dark eyes locking onto hers.
"They are here for you."
Grace stumbled forward as Luca pulled her toward the heavy mahogany doors of the mansion.
Gunfire erupted in the distance, a rapid, terrifying popping sound that made the other dogs bark wildly.
Titan stayed glued to Grace's side, his teeth bared toward the approaching danger.
"Why would anyone want me?" Grace cried out as they crossed the marble threshold.
Luca slammed the heavy doors shut and locked the deadbolts.
"Because twelve years ago, your father stole something from the most ruthless cartel in the city."
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Luca pushed a hidden panel on the wall, revealing a dark, descending staircase.
"And they finally figured out that he left it with you."
