Chapter 36_ Self-inflict

As the meeting concluded, Lucas departed from the shadowed abode of the mafia, the lingering scent of cigar smoke cloaking his attire. The night was tense, and the moon cast extended shadows across the cobbled alley, as he approached the sleek black vehicle awaiting him at the kerb.

His chauffeur, an impassive man with a jagged scar tracing his jaw, held open the door, yet Lucas paused as a peculiar sensation pricked the base of his nape, pondering its source.

Shrugging off the unease, Lucas slipped into his car only to hear a voice call out.

"Lucas! Wait, Lucas!" Elizabeth cried, making her way towards him before he could close the car door and signal the driver to depart.

Lucas arched an eyebrow in silence, and Elizabeth knew he desired an explanation for her interruption. Putting on a meek expression, her eyes clouded with tears, Elizabeth softly spoke, "Could I hitch a ride with you, please? My father is still engrossed in business with the other mafia leaders inside, and I