ᴛʜᴇ ᴛᴡɪꜱᴛᴇᴅ ꜱᴇᴄʀᴇᴛꜱ (*Completed*)

Chapter: 30

The Mafia Ball

The ballroom was a sea of elegance and opulence, a stark contrast to the tension simmering beneath the surface. I walked into the room, feeling the weight of every gaze on me. Beside me, Aria held her head high, her presence commanding and regal.

We were here for a purpose. To show strength, to gather allies, and to send a message to my father and his cronies. This was our world, and we would not be pushed aside.

Nemesis and Alessandro flanked us, their expressions unreadable. Luna and Alex followed closely, their loyalty unwavering. We were a united front, a force to be reckoned with.

As we mingled with the guests, I kept a close eye on my father's associates, noting who seemed loyal and who seemed ready to jump ship. It was a delicate dance, a game of power and influence that required careful maneuvering.

"Dante," a voice called out, pulling me from my thoughts. I turned to see an old friend, Marco, approaching with a smile. "It's been a long time."

"Marco," I greeted him, shaking his hand firmly. "Good to see you."

Marco glanced at Aria, his eyes lingering a moment too long. "And who is this lovely lady?"

"This is Aria," I said, my tone firm. "My fiancée."

Aria smiled, extending her hand. "Pleasure to meet you."

Marco shook her hand, his expression impressed. "You've done well for yourself, Dante."

"I have," I replied, my eyes never leaving his. "And I intend to keep it that way."

Marco nodded, his smile fading slightly. "I hear your father has some...plans in the works."

I stiffened, but kept my expression neutral. "He's always planning something. But this time, things will be different."

"We'll see," Marco said, his tone cryptic. "Good luck, Dante. You'll need it."

As Marco walked away, I felt Aria's hand tighten around mine. "What did he mean by that?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"He's warning me," I replied, my voice low. "But we won't let them intimidate us. We're in this together, and we'll come out on top."

Aria nodded, her eyes fierce with determination. "Together."