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108: Too close to home
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The Mafia's Stolen Bride 109: Lies and Death
EMILY Deception.Concealment.Mortality. The haunting image of the lifeless bodies, their eyes vacant, lingered in my mind, ensnaring my thoughts. It was an experience that would haunt me for a long time to come. I had seen enough death, witnessed enough corpses, to last a lifetime. And with each passing moment, my fear continued to escalate, escalating to the point where our lives were in constant jeopardy, even in the safety of our sleep. A shudder coursed through me at the mere thought of it. The way Rafael had looked at me when he handed me over to Dante was etched in my memory, an expression that hinted at an imminent all-out war. It was as if he knew I was keeping something from him, as if he sensed my concealed vulnerability. Although my decision to leave Rafael had been the right one, it didn't mean I couldn't assist him in every possible way. I hadn't intended to keep secrets from him, yet it seemed inevitable. I could already imagine him labeling them as lies. How could I
The Mafia's Stolen Bride 110: I need the truth
"Wait here," Dante sternly instructed me, his gaze filled with suspicion as he opened the car door. As he circled around the SUV, I caught a glimpse of the firearm he carried, a visible sign that the situation had escalated. Even Dante, usually composed, seemed on edge. Perhaps confronting the circumstances head-on would offer some small measure of solace. But maybe it's just wishful thinking. Suppressing a groan, I steeled myself with newfound determination. Dante guided me out of the passenger seat, gripping my arm firmly as we made our way toward the store entrance. His watchful eyes scanned the parking lot, a clear indication that he remained vigilant. "I'll only be a few minutes," I assured him before stepping into the store. Taking deliberate, deep breaths, I walked slowly, ensuring that I disappeared from his sight. Once I reached the back of the store, my gaze fixed upon the emergency exit that led to a street where I could hail a taxi. It wasn't my first time evading payme
The Mafia's Stolen Bride 111: Reeked of Blood
He raised an eyebrow and walked over to a cabinet, retrieving two glasses. As he reached for a bottle of bourbon, I felt a surge of anger. He believed he could control me, that much was evident. "Your father is a close friend of mine, but I couldn't risk informing him. He's not a good actor, and I couldn't be certain he wasn't involved with that damn murderer who killed my son. Your death had to appear real. When you disappeared, I truly had no way of knowing if you were still alive." The man trembled like a leaf. "Or whether the monster, Axel Movino, would hunt me down and kill me for witnessing the murder of your son, all because of something you did?" I shocked him again, his hand trembling. William seemed to regain his composure, pouring two glasses and approaching me. When I declined his offer, he simply placed them on the counter. "I'm not working for Axel Movino. I have no idea who gave you that idea." "You know exactly who suggested it. Maybe both you and my father were in o
The Mafia's Stolen Bride 112: In Danger
"He expressed his anticipation for us to become better acquainted," he stated, inhaling deeply. "However, I must ensure that you comprehend one thing clearly. You are now under my ownership. I came close to claiming you. Very close." He had orchestrated the abduction of me and the assassination of Rafael. "I will never be your possession. Whoever you may be, your lifespan will not be long enough for you to touch me." To my astonishment, the individual chuckled as he approached, dragging his index finger along the side of my face. I had never felt so violated in my entire life. I flinched, stepping back until a solid figure prevented me from retreating any further. I swallowed hard as the leader lowered his head, taking a deep sniff. "I can detect the scent of your femininity from here, sweet Emily. I eagerly anticipate tasting you, savoring your delicate lips." Revolted, I spat in his face, refusing to back down. The burly thug behind me immediately seized both of my arms, restrain
The Mafia's Stolen Bride 113: Much Worse
I had to acknowledge the man's audacity if he believed he could dissuade me with his words. He cleared his throat, struggling with a series of coughs. When he spoke, there was a strong conviction in his voice. "There is much more to this situation than... you... understand." After taking several deep breaths, he continued. "Every family has obligations and secrets. The Reigo family is no exception. I hold your father in the highest regard and consider myself lucky to call him my friend." I was infuriated by his insolence. Who did he think he was fooling? Armando sighed, wiping the sweat from his brow, and daring to step closer to me. I was repulsed and indignant, but I stood my ground. "You need to talk to your father," he said, sounding far too casual for my liking. "Oh, trust me. I plan on it." "He'll tell you the truth, including about the blackmail." The words intrigued me, but I couldn't help but laugh. "That's your excuse?" "No excuse. It's the damn truth, Rafael." He pul
The Mafia's Stolen Bride 114: Formed an Alliance
Another glance passed between the two men, exchanging unspoken understanding. "No," Aleksei growled. "Damn bastards." He pounded his chest and raised his middle finger. When I raised an eyebrow, he snarled. "Freaking assholes," he repeated. "Who are they?" My instincts told me exactly who they were, but I needed one or both of them to say the name. "Solntsevskaya," Victor said quietly. "The same jerks who threatened the East Coast a few months ago?" I heard the hollowness in my voice. This was the last thing Chicago needed. If it was true, they had some nerve. "Exactly, except now the prized member of the family is in charge. Konstantin Solntsevskaya. He's been groomed since he was a kid to take over from his father." Aleksei sneered as he spoke the words. "And he's been seen in several places in the United States," Victor added. "What the hell does he want with Chicago? Wouldn't New York or Philadelphia be more to his liking?" I asked, half-laughing until I noticed the third lo
The Mafia's Stolen Bride 115: They took her
The others looked on silently, aware that the day had come when we would have to reveal our secret meetings. There was no avoiding it any longer. "Then we work together until this is resolved, regardless of the consequences," I declared. Each person in the room nodded in agreement. We had received assistance and information, but what we faced was unprecedented. The fact that sworn enemies had formed an alliance meant someone knew we were working together, and they saw it as a weakness. But we knew better. We were a formidable force, and we had much to lose if we failed, especially the safety of our loved ones. After ending the call with Dante, I walked away from the others, dialing the number again to relay the necessary information to my father. It was a futile gesture, as I knew he would never forgive his impulsive son. "Dante, things are getting intense. We need to organize the soldiers immediately," I said urgently. "Rafael, we have a problem," Dante replied, his voice laced w
The Mafia's Stolen Bride 116: On Death Bed
"Who? Who the hell took her?" Through a series of strained breaths, he managed to utter, "Ra..." Blood-tinged bubbles escaped his lips, followed by a violent cough that wracked his body. It was evident that time was running out for him. "Russian." A chill ran down my spine, and I bristled at the revelation. Axel could never be mistaken for a Russian. "Okay, just rest," I urged, despite the conflicting emotions within me. I realized that he might still hold valuable information. Refusing to release my arm, he tugged me down closer to him. "Desk. Look. Drive." I glanced towards his desk, trying to comprehend his words. "Take... it." "Alright." Rising to my feet, I walked over to his desk, methodically opening each drawer. Finally, I discovered a solitary jump drive. It had to be what he was referring to. Returning to his side, I held the drive in front of his face. "Is this what Lucas was going to give Emily?" "Ya... yes. A copy." He began coughing up more blood, his chest heaving
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The Mafia's Stolen Bride 123: Filled with Hope for the Future
I went for a drive to visit Stefan at the hospital before returning home. Upon entering the house, I immediately sensed its coldness and stillness. It seemed as though Emily had left, and although I would have been devastated, I couldn't bring myself to be angry. She deserved to have a happy life. With a heavy heart, I dropped my keys on the hallway table, finding it difficult to proceed further into my own lifeless dwelling. Without Emily, there was no love, no brightness. I made my way towards my office, and as I approached the open door, I froze. She had discovered the papers I had signed, another secret I had kept from her. Frustration welled up inside me. Then, a delightful aroma of vanilla and cinnamon caught my attention, emanating from the kitchen. Confused, I ventured closer, and my senses were greeted by additional scents that made my mouth water: garlic, tomatoes, onions, and the fragrance of fresh bread. Taking cautious steps, I continued towards the kitchen, and amidst
The Mafia's Stolen Bride 122: An Amazing Man
"Mmmm... And I love you," I replied, my heart filled with the weight of those words. We remained wrapped in each other's embrace for several minutes, and when he finally eased away, I felt an unexpected sense of emptiness, a subtle pang of loneliness. An irrational fear crept into my mind—that I would always worry about his return, that I would never feel completely safe. But as if he sensed my unease, he zipped up his jeans and gathered me into his arms, disregarding our disheveled state as he led me back to the living room. Tenderly, he settled me on the couch, pulling a blanket over my naked body. Then, he simply disappeared. Confusion and worry washed over me. Had I done something wrong? I waited anxiously for a few minutes, contemplating getting up from the couch, when he reappeared. In his hands, he held an open bottle of champagne and two crystal glasses. It was a moment of enchantment, especially coming from a man who claimed not to have a romantic bone in his body. He pour
The Mafia's Stolen Bride 121: His Devotion
I also came to understand that Rafael had his limits when it came to sharing details about his business and his involvement in certain matters. He had mentioned before that it was partly to protect me, although I couldn't be certain if it was solely due to a lack of trust. Regardless, I decided not to push the issue at that moment. Instead, I cherished the time we spent together, enjoying our dinners and the comfort of his embrace. Amidst the chaos of bullets and death, a realization nagged at me, refusing to be ignored. Sensing an opportunity to lighten the mood, I playfully said, "What if I promise that I'll never let that happen again?" Rafael pulled me up from the ground, a skeptical look on his face. "Do you honestly think I would fall for such a promise?" he replied. "Not at all. You're a wise old man," I teased, unable to suppress a grin. Despite his guarded nature, Rafael had shown me various facets of his personality, including his vulnerability. My love for him was profoun
The Mafia's Stolen Bride 120: Not gonna happen
EMILY Love. That single word had replaced the suffocating fear that had nearly drained me of the will to survive, even though thoughts of death still lingered. Despite being assured that the nightmare was over. From the moment that bastard had forcibly taken me from William's house, I had resigned myself to never seeing Rafael again. While the monster had not followed through on his threat, instead locking me away until he eventually dragged me to the club, I couldn't shake his cowardly face from my mind. But amidst the haunting images that I knew would fade with time, Rafael's heartfelt words echoed in my ears. The horror in his eyes when he laid eyes on me confirmed that he would move heaven and earth to find me, if need be. Curled up under a blanket on the couch, my legs tucked close to my chest, I gazed at the crackling fire he had built. The uncharacteristic cold snap had given him an excuse to pamper me with hot chocolate, the fire perpetually ablaze. I would never have exp
The Mafia's Stolen Bride 119: With all of my heart
As I made my way towards the elevator, I noticed the attention I was receiving from those present in the club. Although some of my soldiers were discreetly positioned throughout the venue, it was much easier to identify the members of the Kadik gang with their leather jackets and dark jeans. I confidently approached a group of them, extending my arms. "I have an appointment with Konstantin." As I had expected, they conducted a search for weapons before allowing me to enter the empty elevator. The doors opened, and I could hear classical music playing from the speakers, an intriguing choice considering the nature of the individual I was about to meet. There he was, seated like a king, reclining in an opulent velour chair with one leg casually draped over the armrest. Dressed in a flowing white shirt and loose dark trousers, his appearance would have been almost comical if not for the underlying tension. "Konstantin Solntsevskaya," I greeted him, noting that Emily was nowhere to be s
The Mafia's Stolen Bride 118: We would win
He followed closely behind me, mirroring my confident stride. The time for this relentless war to reach its conclusion had arrived. And we were determined to emerge victorious. I inserted the drive into my computer, accessing the array of files it contained. "What are we up against?" Aleksei inquired, his customary vodka in hand. "Lists of names, supporters of our respective organizations," I replied. It was evident that someone had gone to great lengths, investing significant time and effort, to compile such an extensive and incriminating roster. "Blackmail," Miguel murmured, his voice barely audible. Indeed, it was a form of blackmail, but not the kind Armando had previously hinted at. "A weapon of sorts," Victor suggested. I glanced at him, acknowledging his insight. "You're correct. It targets those who work for us, placing them in impossible positions. They are left with no choice but to either yield or flee, eradicating crucial support from the police, city councils, atto
The Mafia's Stolen Bride 117: Hunger for power
Despite the enjoyable moments we shared watching games and sharing drinks, we had neglected to engage in meaningful conversations. In all honesty, I found myself somewhat intimidated by him – his amiable nature, kindness, and passion for life, which was completely devoid of violence. Perhaps it was time to change that. "Hey there. I heard you're improving," I said, unsure if I expected him to open his eyes or not, but I sensed that he heard me. "Everything will be alright. Just know that I have my best men protecting you." All I heard in response were the various sounds of the machines. Frustrating. Swallowing hard, aware that I didn't have as much time as I would have liked, I held his hand tightly as a solitary tear rolled down my cheek. What had become of our family? "Anyway, I can't stay long, but I'll be back, alright?" There was no response, no acknowledgement of any kind. "Stefan, know that I love you, brother." I squeezed his hand once more, finally letting go. For some in
The Mafia's Stolen Bride 116: On Death Bed
"Who? Who the hell took her?" Through a series of strained breaths, he managed to utter, "Ra..." Blood-tinged bubbles escaped his lips, followed by a violent cough that wracked his body. It was evident that time was running out for him. "Russian." A chill ran down my spine, and I bristled at the revelation. Axel could never be mistaken for a Russian. "Okay, just rest," I urged, despite the conflicting emotions within me. I realized that he might still hold valuable information. Refusing to release my arm, he tugged me down closer to him. "Desk. Look. Drive." I glanced towards his desk, trying to comprehend his words. "Take... it." "Alright." Rising to my feet, I walked over to his desk, methodically opening each drawer. Finally, I discovered a solitary jump drive. It had to be what he was referring to. Returning to his side, I held the drive in front of his face. "Is this what Lucas was going to give Emily?" "Ya... yes. A copy." He began coughing up more blood, his chest heaving
The Mafia's Stolen Bride 115: They took her
The others looked on silently, aware that the day had come when we would have to reveal our secret meetings. There was no avoiding it any longer. "Then we work together until this is resolved, regardless of the consequences," I declared. Each person in the room nodded in agreement. We had received assistance and information, but what we faced was unprecedented. The fact that sworn enemies had formed an alliance meant someone knew we were working together, and they saw it as a weakness. But we knew better. We were a formidable force, and we had much to lose if we failed, especially the safety of our loved ones. After ending the call with Dante, I walked away from the others, dialing the number again to relay the necessary information to my father. It was a futile gesture, as I knew he would never forgive his impulsive son. "Dante, things are getting intense. We need to organize the soldiers immediately," I said urgently. "Rafael, we have a problem," Dante replied, his voice laced w
