Page 37 of Relentless Pursuit
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The air was alive with the hum of bees and the sweet scent of jasmine, mingling with the earthy aroma of freshly cut-grass.
I stepped out into the expansive backyard of the Lucas estate. The compound was like a kingdom of its own, a fortress of opulence nestled within the heart of the city. My gaze swept over the vast expanse of our backyard oasis, a sanctuary shielded from prying eyes by towering walls and dense foliage. It was a haven of tranquility that never failed to soothe my weary soul.
The centerpiece of the oasis was the sprawling garden, vibrant colors, and lush greenery that stretched as far as the eye could see. Blooms of every hue carpeted the ground. Stone pathways meandered through the garden like veins, leading to secluded alcoves and pergolas draped in vines, the perfect spot for intimate gatherings or quiet reflection. Trees swayed gently in the breeze, their fronds rustling softly as if whispering secrets to one another.
In the heart of the garden stood a majestic fountain, its waters cascading gracefully into a pristine pool below. The sound of trickling water soothed the soul, offering a moment of respite from the chaos of the world beyond our walls. Around the fountain, statues of marble and bronze stood sentinel, their stoic faces watching over the estate with silent vigilance.
I took in the splendor of my surroundings, and my mind drifted to the important business at hand.
The Falsettis and the Moroccos were two of the most powerful families in the underworld, and deepening an alliance with them was crucial for the success of our operations. The marriage of my sisters, Luna, and Gabriella, would serve as a bridge between our families and their respective heirs, solidifying our bonds and ensuring our mutual prosperity for years to come.
I glanced toward the ornate wrought iron gates at the far end of the garden, where the Falsetti and Morocco delegations would soon arrive.
As the appointed hour drew near, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of apprehension. My sisters were my most precious treasures, and the thought of parting with them filled me with a mix of pride and sorrow.
Luna, with her fiery spirit and captivating smile, and Gabriella, with her quiet strength and gentle demeanor—they were the heart and soul of our family, and I would do anything to protect them.
They were no strangers to a world fraught with danger and the machinations of men. As their brother and underboss to the Lucas Cosa Nostra, it was my duty to ensure their safety and happiness, no matter the cost.
Luna and Gabriella stood poised and radiant behind us, their beauty rivaling the stars.
I stood at the threshold of our estate, my posture rigid, eyes scanning the arrival of black Suburbans as they entered and went through security clearance.
Next to me, Dameon was silent. He’d allowed me to take over the reins since he was prepping for the transition. As much as I never wanted this position, surprisingly, I felt empowered by my position and confident in my authority.
Imposing figures of the Falsetti and Morocco delegations emerged from their sleek black vehicles. Each step they took exuded confidence and authority, their dark suits impeccably tailored. Their eyes, sharp and calculating, swept over the surroundings, missing nothing as they assessed the situation with hawk-like gazes.
The Falsettis, with their hard features and steely demeanor, exuded auras of ruthlessness, much like our own. The don, Lorenzo Falsetti, approached with his son and underboss Cesare Falsetti. Both men exuded an air of quiet menace.
Opposite them, Giovanni Morocco, the don of the Moroccos and the underboss, Luca Morocco, radiated power and prestige.
“I have waited for this day, Dameon,” Giovanni said. “For a long time my son has favored your daughter, Gabriella.”
“Then you should thank my son Dominic. He is the one who came up with this idea and he will be the one to broker it.”
Giovanni’s brows rose and he nodded toward me. “Why all of a sudden, Dominic?”
“To be frank, Giovanni, it has come to our attention that there are whispers in the underworld. Because the Black Rose uses our signature, some of the families have become wary of us. Normally, this would be seen as traitorous to have allies speaking ill of us. However, because of the circumstances, we have decided to offer not only peace but protection to you—the Morocco and Falsetti families. To solidify this, we gather here in good faith and offer two of our most precious jewels, Luna, and Gabriella Lucas. As you know this will tighten our bonds and our allegiances. And now is the only 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 have a deal.”
11
Penelope
Three weeks later
I stepped into the opulent bridal boutique. The scent of fresh flowers and fabrics enveloped me, sending excitement shivering down my spine. Today was the day I had been dreaming of since I was a little girl—the day I would choose the gown that would transform me into a beautiful bride.
My heart fluttered with anticipation as I took in the array of luxurious fabrics and exquisite designs displayed before me.
“Welcome, Penelope,” a voice greeted me warmly, and I turned to see the elegant figure of Mrs. De Luca, the renowned wedding planner who had been entrusted with bringing my vision to life. Dominic said she was the best in the underworld, and only the most prominent brides had the luxury of her services. Her eyes sparkled with genuine delight as she approached, her graceful movements imbued with an air of sophistication.