In the La Russo mansion's grand study, Luca sat across from two sharply dressed lawyers. The room felt cold. May La Russo was beside him, resting her hands on Luca's shoulder, while the lead lawyer, Mr. Harold adjusted his glasses and opened a thick folder of documents.
"Luca," Mr. Harod began, "we've been discussing the terms of your father's will and the La Russo estate. As the legitimate heir, the empire is yours, provided you meet certain conditions."
Luca frowned, leaning forward slightly. "What kind of conditions?"
The second lawyer, Ms. Prescott, cleared her throat and picked up where her colleague left off. "Your father, Don La Russo, was a brilliant business manager. However, he was also aware of the dangers and complexities of managing such a vast empire. As a result, he set forth stipulations in his will. In simple terms, you must prove yourself capable of running the family business within a specified timeframe, six months, to be exact."
Luca blinked, trying to process the information. "And if I don't?"
"If you are unable to demonstrate your capability within the given timeframe, the entire empire will revert to your cousin, Miguel La Russo." Mr. Harod expression tightened.
Luca's heart sank at the mention of Miguel. Though he hadn't met him, he'd heard enough from his mother to know that Miguel was someone who was more capable than him.
"Miguel?" Luca muttered, more to himself than anyone else.
May La Russo placed a comforting hand on Luca's shoulder. "Miguel was raised by your father after his brother's death. He has been running certain aspects of the business for a while now, but your father always intended for you to inherit it. However, this clause exists to ensure the empire remains in capable hands."
Luca let out a slow breath. "So, it's either I prove myself in six months, or everything goes to him."
Ms. Prescott nodded. "That's correct. It's a test of leadership, Mr. La Russo. You'll need to show the board and stakeholders that you have what it takes to run the company. If you succeed, the business will be fully yours. But... if you fail..."
Luca interrupted, sharply. "If I fail, Miguel gets it all."
"That's correct. It's a significant challenge, Luca, but it's not impossible. We will provide guidance, and the current board members will assist you through the transition. Your mother's support will be crucial as well." Mr. Harod said, sensing the tension.
Luca remained silent for a moment, his mind racing. The responsibility felt like a lot to handle, but he couldn't let everything his father had built slip away.
"I'll do it," Luca said finally. "I'll prove myself."
Mr. Harod flashed him a smile. "Very well. We'll prepare the necessary documents for you to sign, acknowledging the terms."
As the lawyers shuffled papers and presented the contract for Luca to sign, May La Russo leaned in and whispered,
"You don't have to do this alone, Luca. The business can be overwhelming, but I'll help you every step of the way."
Luca glanced at her and nodded. He signed the documents quickly.
When the last page was signed, Mr. Harod stood up and shook Luca's hand. "Congratulations, Mr. La Russo. You've officially inherited the La Russo empire, on the condition that you meet the requirements, of course."
As the lawyers packed up their papers,
May La Russo stood up, her face lighting up with excitement. "Now that the business is taken care of, I think it's time to celebrate. We've been through so much, and now it's time to focus on the good news."
Luca looked at her, confused for a moment. "Celebrate?"
"Yes, of course," she said with a smile. "We need to throw a party. The La Russo family has been waiting for this day for years. I'll invite all the important people, friends, associates, everyone who matters. It's time to show the world that my son has returned and is ready to take his rightful place."
Luca hesitated. "A party? I'm not sure if I'm ready for that..."
May La Russo waved a hand dismissively. "Nonsense. This is a momentous occasion. You need to show confidence, Luca. This is your time to step into the spotlight."
Luca sighed, but then smiled slightly. "Alright, if you think it's a good idea, let's do it."
May La Russo clapped her hands together. "That's the spirit!"
"Erica ," she called her assistant, who had been waiting outside the room, "start organizing everything. We'll need caterers, invitations, and music. Let's make this a night to remember."
Erica nodded eagerly and rushed off to begin the preparations.
"What are we planning?" Rosa walked just in time to hear her last words.
"Rosa." Luca rushed in her direction. "You should be in bed resting."
"I am fine, Luca." She said, taking her seat on the sofa in the corner.
"So what are we planning?" She asked once again.
"A party to celebrate your brother," May La Russo said.
"That's fantastic!" Rosa cheered.
"It is," May La Russo replied. "We were good with our dress fitting later on, but now we need to put all the other things in place."
May La Russo and Rosa kept on talking, and slowly their voices faded away. Luca couldn't stop thinking of the fact that after this party he would have to prove himself.
May La Russo interrupted his thoughts. It was as if she knew what he was thinking.
"Your father would be so proud of you, Luca. You've come so far, and I have no doubt that you will succeed."
Luca looked at her with a broad smile.
"Thanks, Mom," he said softly. "I'll do my best. For you, for Rosa, and for Dad."
She smiled and moved in his direction, then she wrapped her arms around him. "That's all we can ask for, Luca. And remember, you're not alone in this. We'll face whatever challenges come together."
Luca was about to speak when the door flew open, and a figure stepped in.
"I'm back!" The person said, walking inside.
Luca analyzed the person properly, waiting for him to introduce himself and when he finally got up, his eyes shook in shock.