Luciano reclined in his leather office chair, a smug grin spreading across his face as he surveyed the city lights from his towering New York skyscraper. The faint hum of the bustling streets below filtered through the thick windows, reminding him of his domain—a kingdom that he'd claimed through sheer ruthlessness and ambition. New York was his, and now he'd taken the first steps toward seizing his rightful place among the greats.
He clasped his hands together, his fingers tapping rhythmically, each tap a reminder of his calculated move against Salvatore De Luca. In Luciano's mind, Salvatore's so-called empire was outdated, held together by fear and loyalty alone. Luciano, however, had built his influence through innovation, intelligence, and a strategic network of allies.
Matteo Greco and Salvatore might see his actions as reckless, but Luciano knew it was a necessary escalation. Making the first move, he knew, was like beating the drum of war—a signal that change was coming. Let them think he was brash. Let them believe he was stirring trouble. Soon, they would realize his ambition was unmatched.
Luciano leaned back, turning to his consigliere, Lorenzo, who stood by the window, observing the cityscape. "It's about time they saw New York as it really is—my city," Luciano said, a satisfied glint in his eye.
Lorenzo nodded, his face impassive but his gaze calculating. "They'll be expecting you to overreach, to make a mistake. It'll buy us time, but you know Salvatore won't take this lightly."
"Let him retaliate," Luciano replied, his tone laced with disdain. "I've planned for this. Salvatore's weakness is his arrogance; he believes his empire is untouchable, that we wouldn't dare. But this city? It will be his downfall, and my rise to the throne."
Lorenzo's brow lifted slightly. "And the Grecos? They might align with De Luca if it suits them. If they see you as the greater threat, they won't hesitate to put aside their differences."
A dark chuckle escaped Luciano's lips. "Antonio Greco's ambition blinds him, just as Salvatore's pride binds him. The two of them will tear each other apart while I take my seat at the head of this city. They can play their games, but I hold the power here, in the heart of New York."
Lorenzo's gaze lingered on his boss, a hint of admiration in his expression. "Then we proceed?"
"Yes," Luciano said, standing and straightening his cuffs. "Let's remind everyone exactly who they're dealing with. This isn't Salvatore's kingdom, nor is it Greco's playground. New York belongs to me."
As Luciano's eyes roamed over his glittering empire, he felt a surge of satisfaction. He had lit the fuse; now he would watch as the two other kings moved in response, each step playing into his grand design. New York was his, and soon, the rest would bow.