Heaven The morning after Eden's visit, I was in the kitchen, happily preparing breakfast with him. The aroma of coffee filled the air as we laughed and shared stories, enjoying a rare moment of normalcy in the chaotic underworld.Eden, flipping pancakes, grinned. "Heaven, this feels like a glimpse into a parallel universe where we're just regular people."I chuckled. "Yeah, a universe without the constant threat of rival factions and family drama."As we bantered about mundane things, the kitchen door creaked open, and in walked Chase, his eyes narrowing as he saw Eden. "What's he still doing here?" he grumbled.I glanced at Chase, feigning innocence. "Morning, Chase. Eden's just helping me with breakfast. What's it to you?"Chase scowled, pouring himself a cup of coffee. "I don't recall inviting him to stay the night. What's the deal, Eden?"Eden, unfazed, turned to Chase. "Relax, man. I'm just here for a visit. No need to get territorial."Chase shot him a glare. "Territorial? This
ChaseChase's POV:The laughter echoed through the room as we gathered for our little gaming session. Daven, Eden, and I sat around the table, ready for a night of friendly competition.Daven grinned, shuffling the deck of cards. "Alright, folks, tonight's game is poker. No holding back, and no underworld tricks, Chase."I smirked, feigning innocence. "Who, me? I'm just here for a casual game."Eden chuckled. "Casual for you, maybe. I've seen your poker face, Chase. It's practically unreadable."I leaned back in my chair. "Well, Eden, if you're so confident, let's see who comes out on top tonight."As the cards were dealt, the banter continued. Daven, always the instigator, teased, "Eden, any special skills up your sleeve, or are you relying on beginner's luck?"Eden smirked. "I might surprise you, Daven. After all, I've been learning from the master here." He gestured towards me with a playful grin.I rolled my eyes. "Don't let him fool you. He's a quick learner, but I'm not giving a
Heaven's POV:The drive to the border with Chase and my guards was surprisingly smooth. The tension I expected from traveling with a notorious underworld figure was replaced by casual conversation and occasional laughter. Chase seemed genuinely interested in getting to know me beyond our usual banter.Chase grinned as we approached the border. "Ready for some weapons shopping, Heaven?"I chuckled. "Just another day in the underworld, right? Let's get this done."The transaction was swift, and we loaded the weapons into the car. Chase, ever the strategist, discussed our plans for distributing the arsenal.Chase leaned back in his seat. "Heaven, I've got a few ideas on how we can strategically place these weapons. What do you think?"I nodded. "I trust your judgment, Chase. You've got the experience in these matters."As we drove back, our conversation shifted to lighter topics. Chase raised an eyebrow. "So, Heaven, ever thought about joining the poker nights? It's not all underworld bu
Chase's POV:I woke up to find Heaven in the kitchen, her expression a mix of exhaustion and something else. Something I couldn't quite put my finger on."Rough night?" I asked, trying to sound casual.She shrugged. "Just the usual chaos. Nothing I can't handle."I leaned against the kitchen counter. "You know, Heaven, you don't have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. Sometimes it's okay to let someone else share the burden."She shot me a skeptical look. "And who would that someone be? You?"I smirked. "Hey, I'm not as bad as you make me out to be. Besides, you might be surprised at how good I am at lightening the mood."She raised an eyebrow. "Lightening the mood, or causing more chaos?"I chuckled. "A bit of both, perhaps. But seriously, Heaven, you don't have to be so guarded all the time. We're in this together, right?"She sighed. "In this together, until the next betrayal or twist of fate. That's how it goes, Chase."I decided to change the subject, opting for
Heaven's POV:The anticipation for our Bahamas trip bubbled within me as we all got ready to embark on this unexpected adventure. Packing seemed like an endless task, yet I couldn't help but throw in a variety of outfits, just in case the tropical paradise demanded a change in wardrobe.As we boarded the flight, the atmosphere was surprisingly light. Eden's infectious energy, Daven's calm demeanor, and Chase's unexpected humor created an air of camaraderie I hadn't experienced before. Laughter echoed through the plane as we played games and shared stories, each moment weaving a tapestry of connection among us.I caught glimpses of a different side of Chase—his genuine laughter, the way he effortlessly joined in the banter, and the unexpected comfort of his arm around me when a particularly funny moment struck. It was as if the underworld chaos had momentarily given way to a more relaxed version of ourselves.Upon landing in the Bahamas, the warmth embraced us, a stark contrast to the
Heaven I rushed into the bathroom, my heart pounding as I found Chase on the floor, unconscious. "Chase! Wake up!" I shouted, my voice trembling with fear.Panicking, I grabbed my phone, hastily dialing Eden and Daven. "Guys, get over here now! Something's wrong with Chase!" I could hear the urgency in my own voice, a stark contrast to the carefree moments we had shared just the day before.Eden's voice crackled through the phone. "We're on our way, Heaven. Just hold on."I knelt beside Chase, gently tapping his cheek. "Come on, Chase. Wake up!" The seconds felt like an eternity as I waited for any sign of response.The door burst open as Eden and Daven rushed in. Eden's eyes widened in shock. "What happened?""I don't know," I stammered. "He was fine last night. I just found him like this."Daven, always composed, checked Chase's pulse. "We need to get him to the hospital. Now."As we hurriedly gathered our belongings, panic and worry hung heavy in the air. The vibrant energy of t
ChaseOur days in the Bahamas had come to an end, and the reality of Heaven's decision to marry me for the sake of saving my life lingered in the air. As we sat together on the flight back to Italy, the hum of the engines providing a backdrop to our conversation, I couldn't help but feel a mix of gratitude and apprehension."Heaven," I began, breaking the silence that hung between us, "I still can't believe you're willing to go through with this. It means a lot to me."She looked at me with a reassuring smile, her eyes reflecting a blend of determination and compassion. "Chase, we're in this together. I want you to have a chance at a healthy life, and if this is what it takes, then I'm all in."I nodded, a sense of warmth filling me. "I appreciate that, Heaven. It's not an easy decision for either of us, but knowing you're by my side makes it a bit more bearable."Our conversation shifted to the practicalities of our impending marriage—how we would approach our families, explain the s
Heaven The darkness surrounding me felt suffocating, and the sound of distant waves became a disorienting reminder of the uncertainty that now enveloped my existence. Panic surged as I realized I was bound to a chair, my wrists secured tightly. The air was heavy with the salty scent of the sea, a cruel juxtaposition to the fear gnawing at my core.In the oppressive silence, the approach of a presence sent shivers down my spine. The footsteps drew nearer, and when the mask covering my eyes was suddenly ripped away, I squinted against the sudden onslaught of light. As my eyes adjusted, the familiar contours of Eden's face came into focus."Eden?" I stammered, confusion clouding my thoughts. "What's happening? Where am I?"Eden's gaze, once warm and familiar, now held an intensity that unsettled me. He spoke with a conviction that sent chills down my spine. "Heaven, I can't let you marry Chase. I love you, and I won't stand by and watch you make a mistake."The shock of his words hit me
Epilogue Selena Closing the bedroom door behind us, Angel and I prepared to settle into the comforting embrace of sleep. Our nightly ritual of winding down often turned into moments of reflection and shared thoughts."Selena," Angel began, a soft smile playing on his lips, "can we talk for a bit? About Heaven."I nodded, sensing the depth of his emotions. "Of course, Angel. What's on your mind?"He took a deep breath, his eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and emotion. "I just wanted to thank you, Selena. For everything you've done for Heaven. She's so happy, and it's all because of you."I reached for his hand, a reassuring gesture. "Angel, she's our daughter. I love her as much as you do."He chuckled, a hint of tears glistening in his eyes. "I know, but you've been more than a stepmother. You've been a guiding force, a source of love and stability in her life. I can't express how grateful I am."I pulled him into a gentle embrace. "It's been a joy raising Heaven with you. She's a
Heaven Back home, the news of our impending parenthood was met with overwhelming joy. Chase, bursting with excitement, took charge of sharing the news with our families and close friends.He called his dad first, the anticipation evident in his voice. "Dad, you won't believe it. Heaven and I are going to have a baby!"His dad's voice, a mix of surprise and delight, echoed through the phone. "Chase, that's incredible news! I can't wait to be a grandfather. When's the little one due?"Chase grinned, "A few months from now. We wanted to share the joy with you."After sharing the news with his dad, Chase turned to me, a glint of happiness in his eyes. "Heaven, this is amazing. Our families are going to be over the moon."As we informed my family, the reactions ranged from tears of joy to exclamations of excitement. My dad, already fond of Chase, couldn't hide his happiness. "Heaven, my dear, this is wonderful news. Chase, you're going to make a fantastic father."Chase, ever the doting p
Heaven The sun painted the sky in hues of pink and gold as I stood at the altar, the soft rustle of petals beneath my feet. Chase, looking dashing in his tailored suit, stood beside me. Today marked the culmination of our journey—the day we took our vows and embraced a future together.As the ceremony unfolded, the air buzzed with excitement. The vows we exchanged echoed through the venue, a declaration of love that resonated with every guest. The solemnity of the moment mingled with the joy that radiated from our smiles.Chase's eyes met mine, and in that shared gaze, I found reassurance and love. We sealed our promises with a kiss, a moment captured by the flurry of camera shutters and the cheers of our loved ones.The news reporters, eager to capture the essence of our unconventional love story, approached us. Microphones in hand, they bombarded us with questions. "Heaven, how does it feel to marry under such unique circumstances?"I chuckled, the surreal nature of our story evide
Chase The agony of losing Heaven, the fear that gripped my heart, was an indescribable torment. Every step I took in the desperate search for her felt like an eternity, my mind haunted by the possibility of a future without her. But against all odds, a lead emerged, a beacon of hope that guided me to an old, desolate warehouse near the seaside.With my gons by my side, we cautiously approached the abandoned structure. The air hung heavy with tension as I gripped the handle of my gun, determined to rescue Heaven from the clutches of the darkness that had consumed Eden.Entering the warehouse, my heart pounded in my chest as I navigated through the eerie silence. The creaking of the floor beneath my feet was a haunting melody, underscoring the urgency of the mission. And then, there she was – tied to a chair, her head bleeding. Rage surged through me, and I moved swiftly to untie her, my hands trembling with a mix of fear and determination."Heaven," I whispered, my voice choked with e
Heaven The darkness surrounding me felt suffocating, and the sound of distant waves became a disorienting reminder of the uncertainty that now enveloped my existence. Panic surged as I realized I was bound to a chair, my wrists secured tightly. The air was heavy with the salty scent of the sea, a cruel juxtaposition to the fear gnawing at my core.In the oppressive silence, the approach of a presence sent shivers down my spine. The footsteps drew nearer, and when the mask covering my eyes was suddenly ripped away, I squinted against the sudden onslaught of light. As my eyes adjusted, the familiar contours of Eden's face came into focus."Eden?" I stammered, confusion clouding my thoughts. "What's happening? Where am I?"Eden's gaze, once warm and familiar, now held an intensity that unsettled me. He spoke with a conviction that sent chills down my spine. "Heaven, I can't let you marry Chase. I love you, and I won't stand by and watch you make a mistake."The shock of his words hit me
ChaseOur days in the Bahamas had come to an end, and the reality of Heaven's decision to marry me for the sake of saving my life lingered in the air. As we sat together on the flight back to Italy, the hum of the engines providing a backdrop to our conversation, I couldn't help but feel a mix of gratitude and apprehension."Heaven," I began, breaking the silence that hung between us, "I still can't believe you're willing to go through with this. It means a lot to me."She looked at me with a reassuring smile, her eyes reflecting a blend of determination and compassion. "Chase, we're in this together. I want you to have a chance at a healthy life, and if this is what it takes, then I'm all in."I nodded, a sense of warmth filling me. "I appreciate that, Heaven. It's not an easy decision for either of us, but knowing you're by my side makes it a bit more bearable."Our conversation shifted to the practicalities of our impending marriage—how we would approach our families, explain the s
Heaven I rushed into the bathroom, my heart pounding as I found Chase on the floor, unconscious. "Chase! Wake up!" I shouted, my voice trembling with fear.Panicking, I grabbed my phone, hastily dialing Eden and Daven. "Guys, get over here now! Something's wrong with Chase!" I could hear the urgency in my own voice, a stark contrast to the carefree moments we had shared just the day before.Eden's voice crackled through the phone. "We're on our way, Heaven. Just hold on."I knelt beside Chase, gently tapping his cheek. "Come on, Chase. Wake up!" The seconds felt like an eternity as I waited for any sign of response.The door burst open as Eden and Daven rushed in. Eden's eyes widened in shock. "What happened?""I don't know," I stammered. "He was fine last night. I just found him like this."Daven, always composed, checked Chase's pulse. "We need to get him to the hospital. Now."As we hurriedly gathered our belongings, panic and worry hung heavy in the air. The vibrant energy of t
Heaven's POV:The anticipation for our Bahamas trip bubbled within me as we all got ready to embark on this unexpected adventure. Packing seemed like an endless task, yet I couldn't help but throw in a variety of outfits, just in case the tropical paradise demanded a change in wardrobe.As we boarded the flight, the atmosphere was surprisingly light. Eden's infectious energy, Daven's calm demeanor, and Chase's unexpected humor created an air of camaraderie I hadn't experienced before. Laughter echoed through the plane as we played games and shared stories, each moment weaving a tapestry of connection among us.I caught glimpses of a different side of Chase—his genuine laughter, the way he effortlessly joined in the banter, and the unexpected comfort of his arm around me when a particularly funny moment struck. It was as if the underworld chaos had momentarily given way to a more relaxed version of ourselves.Upon landing in the Bahamas, the warmth embraced us, a stark contrast to the
Chase's POV:I woke up to find Heaven in the kitchen, her expression a mix of exhaustion and something else. Something I couldn't quite put my finger on."Rough night?" I asked, trying to sound casual.She shrugged. "Just the usual chaos. Nothing I can't handle."I leaned against the kitchen counter. "You know, Heaven, you don't have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. Sometimes it's okay to let someone else share the burden."She shot me a skeptical look. "And who would that someone be? You?"I smirked. "Hey, I'm not as bad as you make me out to be. Besides, you might be surprised at how good I am at lightening the mood."She raised an eyebrow. "Lightening the mood, or causing more chaos?"I chuckled. "A bit of both, perhaps. But seriously, Heaven, you don't have to be so guarded all the time. We're in this together, right?"She sighed. "In this together, until the next betrayal or twist of fate. That's how it goes, Chase."I decided to change the subject, opting for