Under The Crimson Veil

red, a whirlwind of horns, flashing lights, and the hum of a city that never paused to grieve. Her heart felt heavy as she turned onto the familiar cob

ather's death had changed everything. Michael DeLuca, feared mafia don and the man who had both rai

ng the armed guards stationed at every corner. Their presence wasn't surprising; her father had

ing seeped through her coat, but it was the oppressive weight of the place that truly sent shivers down her sp

jawline stood in the doorway. Luca Romano. Even after all these years, he was unmistakable.

his voice low and

ing despite her grief. "I didn't

pression remained cold. "Your father's will is being

, but it did little to ease the unease coiling in her chest. The grand foyer was just as she remembered-marbl

ng the air. She recognized many of them: uncles, cousins, and longtime associates of

aughter," on

ever come back,"

eping her head high. S

d by the fireplace, his gaze fixed on her as she entered. Several other high-ranking members of the

ring for her to sit. "Thank you fo

r, her back rigid. "Le

but he was meticulous about his affairs. His assets, properties, and businesses will be dist

s pulse quickened, though sh

family," the lawyer continue

n the air, heavy

rotests erupt

us!" one

e for years!" a

rough the chaos lik

was palpable. Luca's gaze never le

ice steady despite the turmoil inside her. "

, but his decision is final. If you refuse, the family's assets and operations

d, his tone sharp. "A power

e weight of responsibility pressed down on her. Refusing could destroy what little

to think," sh

," Luca replied, his

as the others filtered out. Only Luca remained, l

r your head,"

lare. "I didn't as

t want this life, but it's yours now. If you don't step up, someone el

see her fear. "And what do you suggest, Luca? Th

ss smile. "Pretend all you wan

en them crackling with tension.

vanished just as quickly. "Your father trusted

urned and left the room, leavi

er mind racing. The shadows of her father's world had fina