The grand ballroom of the Romano estate shimmered under crystal chandeliers, casting a golden glow on the finely dressed guests. Behind the opulence, however, was a tension so thick it could be cut with a knife. Everyone present understood the gravity of tonight's event. This wasn't a celebration of love, but a.... contract, an alliance sealed not with affection. I stood at the edge of the room, my posture rigid, my heart racing beneath my perfectly tailored gown. I had always known that this day would come. As the daughter of one of the most powerful mafia dons in New York, my fate has never been my own, but knowing didn't make it any easier. Tonight, I am to be handed over like an asset, my life traded in a deal forged by blood and loyalty.
My eyes scanned the room until they finally fell on himāTristan Romano. He stood near the centre surrounded by men in dark suits, but he was unmistakable, exuding a lethal confidence that made the others seem insignificant. He was tall, with sharp features, his dark hair slicked back and cold, calculating eyes that revealed nothing of the man beneath.
He looked every part of the heir to the Romano Empire, the family that had long ruled the city's underworld. Our families had been at some odds for years, a silent war brewing beneath the surface. But now, with enemies closing on both sides, our families have no other choice but to "unite"āand I was the price.
"Miss". A voice startled me, pulling me from my thoughts. My father's friend, whom I don't remember his name, approached, his expression unreadable as always. "It's time". My stomach twisted, but I forced myself to nod.
I smoothed my dress and followed him towards the grand staircase where my father stood waiting. His presence was commanding, as always, though the lines on his face were deeper than I remembered. His eyes met mine briefly, although they held no warmth, I could see the weight of his decision there. This marriage was not just a pact, it was our last chance for.... survival.
As I descended the staircase, all of a sudden, all eyes turned to me. I could feel their intense gazes on me and heard whispers that followed my every step. I have been raised to play my part as a perfect mafia princess, but in this moment, I felt like a lamb being led to slaughter.
Tristan watched me approach, his face a mask of indifference. I have heard rumors, of course, whispers of the violence that followed him, the cold precision with which he handled his family's business. He was feared, even among his own, but none of it mattered now. When I finally reached him, he extended his hand and I placed mine in his.
His touch was cold, firm and it sent a shiver down my spine. My father stepped forward, his voice deep and authoritative. "Tonight, we stand as one family. The Rossis and the Romanos will no longer be enemies, but allies. This marriage will bring an end to the years of division and will unite our families against the common threats we face".
Tristan's father, Don Roberto Romano, nodded in agreement. His cold, calculating eyes mirrored his son's, betraying no emotion. "This is a business arrangement". My father continued. "But it will be honoured as a union of trust and loyalty. Our families' futures depend on it".
I felt the weight of the words pressing down on me. I looked at Tristan searching his expression for some hint of what he was thinking about but his face remained impassive. The priest began to speak, reciting the vows that bound us in power, not in love. I repeated the words, my voice steadily despite the uneasiness inside me, I knew there was no turning back.
When it was done, he leaned in close, his lips brushing my ear as he whispered,"You now belong to me now Selena. There is no escape from this".
I stiffened, meeting his gaze. "And you also belong to me". I whispered back. "Don't forget that". For a moment, something flickered in his eyes, maybe amusement. But it was gone, replaced with his cold expression he always wore.
As the guests applauded, celebrating the beginning of a new era, I felt a chill settled over me. I am now the wife of Tristan Romano, bound to a man I barely knew and didn't trust. But one thing was certain: this was just the beginning. The real battle was yet to come.
Stay tuned for Chapter 2
Loviessssss.....ā¤ļø
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