Chapter 173

Carlotta wiped her tears, her expression filled with sadness. "She wanted nothing, but for you to be safe and protected. She was dying and knew she wouldn't be there to shield you from the world you were born into. She wanted you to live a peaceful life, free from the dangers and secrets that came with your family name."

"But my father, the Mafia Lord..."

She walked closer to him. "She didn't trust he would protect you enough"

"I'm his heir..."

"Your father already had a son with his Mistress and was grooming him to take over. Your mother feared the deadly power struggle that would ensue, and didn't want you to be dragged into it." Carlotta gripped his arm, her eyes pleading. "Do not engage with them, I beg of you. Do not let your mother's dying wish and all my efforts to protect you be for nothing. You've built a peaceful and successful life here, you do not need to go back there. Do not risk all you've worked so hard for, everything you've accomplished. Most of all, do not risk your