Wanted

Chapter One

~A couple of years later~

I'm still trying to find her. How could this be so hard? There are only so many places in Italy she could be. He wouldn't send her out of the country, would he?

I stare at the estate gate before me. It's been two and a half years since I saw this gate. Since I last saw Serena.

Her father has named me a criminal, a perk of being a wealthy politician, I suppose. I've been running for so long, training and preparing for this moment.

I've moved from town to town for these past years. I've lived with various roommates and been in plenty of uncomfortable situations on the streets.

I've searched all of Italy; if she's still in this country, she must be inside this godforsaken estate.

I sigh and slowly move to climb the gate.

Once on top, I search for guards before I drop down on the other side.

I see some servants inside the large windows rushing to complete their chores.

In the top room, I look for Serena's father's office.

Ruid always paced in front of that window—the man who ruined my life. I didn't need him to see me now, not when I've come all this way.

I finally spot Ruid sitting at his desk with a young man, his replacement apprentice no doubt sitting in a chair in front of him.

I feel bad for the kid. I was once in the same position. The only reason I stayed was for her... Serena brought so much light into my dull, dark life.

~Flashback four years ago~

"Damien!" Ruid roared from his office. I rush inside to assist in whatever it is he may need.

I'm met with the extravagant large oak desk when I enter the office. Wooden bookshelves that clutter the walls. And a petite blonde girl sat before me in one of the small wooden chairs in front of Ruid's desk. She looks to be near my age, probably two years younger. Her big sparkling blue eyes meet mine, and I feel a wave of familiarity before she smiles a tight smile before turning to look at Ruid.

I turn to face the man, seeing a scowl permanently etched into his face. "Sir? How may I be of service?" I ask in my most sincerest of tones.

My father had worked for Ruid before he passed, and I was lucky to be able to work here, even more fortunate to live here. I could never piss off the boss, or my life would be in tatters at a drop of a hat.

"Sit," Ruid said in a deep, stern tone, gesturing to the chair next to the beautiful blonde girl.

I straighten my clothes a bit before sitting down.

Sleeping in the maid's quarters is nice enough, but by the time I reach the main house, my clothes are always a wreck from my rush, not to mention the heat.

I turn to face Ruid; his bold green eyes pin me to my spot.

Ruid is a scary man. He holds so much power here in Italy.

Not to mention his frightening appearance. Women swoon for him, but any man is intimidated due to the sheer power he radiates.

He's tall with broad shoulders, black hair, and a strong jaw. He has a scar from his chin to his top lip, giving him an even more intense look.

"Damien, I've called you in to discuss my daughter."

His daughter? How could someone so innocent-looking be born of this man?