"Mobbed by Matrimony" (wlw)

Chapter 1: The Phantom Circle

The Hague (Downtown area) - the streets are lined with shops, restaurants, and office buildings, creating a vibrant commercial atmosphere. People hurry along, some chatting on phones or carrying shopping bags, while others navigate the buses and subways. The noise is a blend of honking cars, distant sirens, and the hum of conversations. Neon signs and digital billboards flash above, contributing to the lively and sometimes chaotic energy of the area.

In a narrow alley just off the bustling downtown street, the atmosphere starkly contrasts with the surrounding activity. The alley is dimly lit, with scattered trash and graffiti-covered walls. In there, two groups are engaged in a heated altercation, their shouts and the sounds of shuffling feet and scuffling barely audible over the din of the busy street nearby. Despite the intensity of the fight, the alley's seclusion means that passersby on the main street remain largely unaware of the commotion.

"We're finished here. Everything's been handled."

The man speaks with a firm tone, turning towards the dark figure leaning against the wall, observing the aftermath of the altercation. The figure remains shrouded in shadow, their presence a silent enigma amidst the chaos.

The figure straightens, their eyes narrowing slightly as they process the information.

"Finally, let the others handle the cleanup. Make sure to bring the parcel and the suitcase. We've got everything we need. Now, I can finally enjoy a quiet dinner."

The dark figure's voice carries a hint of satisfaction, a stark contrast to the chaos that had just unfolded.

Despite the late hour, the streets remain bustling with activity. A sleek black vehicle moves steadily through the city, its interior occupied by two individuals—the driver at the wheel and a solitary figure seated in the back.

"Godfather called, boss. He wants you to take the parcel and the suitcase to Van Leeuw Manor."

The man says, his voice tense as he conveys the message to the dark figure sitting in the back of the car, idly playing with a knife.

The dark figure, barely glancing up from the blade, responds with a weary but authoritative tone.

"You handle the delivery, Jared. I'm exhausted and starving. Just drop me off at my place first. Let Grandfather know I'll see him tomorrow."

The figure's voice is laced with both fatigue and command, underscoring their desire to delegate the task and take a well-deserved break.

Jared strides down the grand hallway of Van Leeuw Manor, the opulent decor echoing with each step. Balancing a heavy box and a sleek suitcase, he approaches the imposing door at the end of the corridor, its intricate details framed by the dim glow of the hallway's chandeliers.

"Jared? Where's Alex?"

The old man inquires, his voice tinged with impatience as he eyes the bodyguard carrying the package.

Jared meets the old man's gaze steadily.

"The boss insisted on heading home and asked to see you tomorrow, Godfather."

He replies. His tone is respectful yet firm, reflecting the gravity of the message.

"That stubborn child," the old man mutters with a sigh, clearly frustrated.

"I had some important news to deliver tonight, but it looks like that will have to wait until tomorrow. I need Alex's presence for this."

He shakes his head, opening the suitcase to reveal a stack of cash neatly organized inside. With a resigned gesture, he then opens the box, uncovering packages of cocaine carefully packed within.

"These people are becoming increasingly unruly," the old man says with a grimace, his frustration palpable.

"Ensure that those who refuse to cooperate within our territory are dealt with swiftly. I have no patience for gangs that can't adhere to simple rules."

He then turns his attention to Jared. "Take this down to the basement, Jared. Make sure everything inside the box is disposed of properly."

Jared nods, his expression resolute. "Right away, Godfather."

He carefully lifts the box and makes his way to the basement, where he will dispose of the drugs recovered from the recent gang conflict.

Alfonzo Van Leeuw, known to most as the "Godfather," is the formidable leader of the Phantom Circle. Unlike other mafia organizations, Alfonzo maintains a strict boundary for his operations, fiercely detesting any unauthorized incursions or transactions within his territory.

The Godfather is regarded by his associates as both a strict and noble ruler. While illegal activities are certainly a part of their operations, they are meticulously controlled and limited to what he deems acceptable. The Phantom Circle, living up to their name, operates with an aura of invincibility, remaining largely silent and unobtrusive unless provoked by unnecessary conflicts.

As a result, the Phantom Circle has earned a considerable reputation among mafia groups in other countries, garnering both admiration and respect for their disciplined approach and strategic silence. However, their reputation has also provoked jealousy and animosity from rivals. These enemies, resentful of the Phantom Circle's prominence despite their low profile, bide their time, waiting for an opportunity to strike.

The Godfather has three children: Damon, the eldest; Amanda, the middle child; and Luis, the youngest. His wife passed away a few years after the birth of their youngest son, and since then, Alfonzo has devoted himself entirely to the Phantom Circle. He is also the proud grandfather of four, all of whom are involved in the family business. Alex, 24, Damon and his late wife Yuri's child; Julia and Elliot (twins), 20, are the children of Amanda and her husband Clarence; and Gabriel, 22, is the adopted son of Luis and his husband Samuel.

Family and loyalty are paramount to Alfonzo, who holds them in the highest regard. However, adherence to family tradition is equally crucial, non-negotiable and upheld with unwavering rigor. The Van Leeuw family has a long-standing practice of arranging marriages for their members, with the grandfather making the decisions about who their grandchildren marry. Despite this tradition, the Van Leeuws do not base these arrangements on family status or influence, focusing instead on ensuring the matches align with their values and objectives. This practice, passed down from one generation to the next, is rooted in maintaining the family's core values and continuity.

The old man settled into his chair, pouring another generous measure of whiskey into his glass. He gazed out the window, admiring the serene view as the moon bathed the sky and garden in a soft, luminous glow. Leaning back with a sigh, he allowed himself a moment of relaxation, knowing that tomorrow would be a busy yet significant day for his family.