Binding Scars

Chapter 16

"What does that mean?"

"I don't intend on outranking De Santis. He's gotten more powerful over the years with his own cartel. He's had many people loyal to him, his team, and business associates. If I were to come for him, I'd probably end up in some jail. He's at the top of the food chain. I can only aim to get so high, but with you, I can build my own chain."

Niles spoke with admiration for the man; it not only seemed like he thought of De Santis as the best man in the underworld. In his voice and words, he was not only inspired to rank with him, but he drew inspiration from the man. This was the first time Allison heard Niles open up about his plans, dreams, and aspirations.

She'd heard of the Italian man before; he was a no-go zone. Despite him being out of reach for her father's company, De Santis had the underworld by the balls. For someone as young as Niles, new to this whole leading thing. It only made sense that he would draw inspiration from the other man. It wasn't a high mountain or tree to reach; their worlds were closer than anyone would anticipate; it's just that- one had more power and more experience than the other.

I'm still not getting it. 

She thought of saying, but that would frustrate the man, so she let him be.

"I'll let your sister go."

She looked at him, it was unexpected and a sudden reply what made him come to that decision?

"But?"

It came out as a question from her side, she could sense it inside of him. Though the night was drifting away, and people talked, minding their words. They did not miss the expression she made while looking at him as he casually stood looking at his glass.

"Marry me."

"Huh?"

"Marry me, Allison. Family is important, I can only fill my grandfather's shoes as a cartel leader if I have a stable life. All of them here know I am moving closer into claiming that seat. Marry me, I'll let your sister go home, and you won't have to deal with a father who resents you either."

"My father does.not. resent me." 

She turned and scrolled to the other side of the large venue. She walked through the crowd her heart sending fire through her chest and she made her way to the balcony. She gulped the rest of her wine, walking up and down feeling her palms sweaty and her heart hysterically beating.

"You seem worked up."

Simone said appearing behind her, she turned to look at him then her eyes went back to the crowd. She couldn't see Niles anywhere in sight.

"I don't bite." Simone spoke seeing her eyes roam behind them.

He came to stand beside her, glancing at her bare back that was exposed by the dress. She looked majestic; it was no lie. She was probably the most beautiful woman in the world, she looked like her mother. Who was a model at the time and somehow fell head over heels for a man who didn't even love her. Her father.

"News are circulating faster inside. Do you know what you being here means?"

"Should I care?"

"If you're interested to know your purpose in his life, then yes."

Though she was keen on leaving a moment ago, she wanted to hear what he had to say. He smirked when he realized she wanted to know.

"Though tonight seems to be a usual night of drinking and making allies and enemies. You're an esteemed guest. Niles is introducing you to the cartel. He's putting your life in danger just to get what he wants."