Mafia Girl's Journey

Chapter 26:War Council

Marco's POV:

The Rossi estate buzzed with heightened tension, the atmosphere crackling with the anticipation of retaliation. As I made my way to the meeting room, I could feel the weight of responsibility settling heavily on my shoulders. Don Rossi's attack was a declaration of war, and it was up to us to respond with decisive force.

I entered the room to find Matteo already there, along with several of our key lieutenants. The air was thick with unspoken anger and the resolve to protect our family at all costs. We couldn't afford to show any weakness.

"We need to identify our enemies and strike back immediately," I said, taking my seat at the head of the table. "Does anyone have leads on who might be behind this?"

One of our men, Lorenzo, spoke up. "The Russians have been moving aggressively in our territory. I wouldn't be surprised if they're responsible."

Matteo nodded in agreement. "And the Koreans have been making alliances with other factions. They could be involved as well."

I clenched my jaw, my mind racing with possibilities. Both the Russians and the Koreans had been pushing our limits, testing our defenses. It was time to remind them who held power in this city.

"Gather our intelligence," I ordered. "I want to know everything about their operations, their leaders, their weaknesses. We'll hit them where it hurts most."

The room buzzed with activity as everyone set to work, strategizing and planning our next moves. This wasn't just about revenge; it was about sending a message that the Rossi family would not be underestimated.

As the meeting continued, my thoughts kept drifting back to Amara. The look of determination in her eyes when she stood by her father's side was something I couldn't shake. She was stronger than she knew, and I found myself drawn to her resilience.

When the meeting finally adjourned, I sought her out. I found her in the garden, pacing restlessly. She turned when she heard me approach, her expression a mix of worry and resolve.

"Marco," she said, her voice steady but laced with emotion. "What's our plan?"

"We're gathering information," I replied. "We need to be sure before we strike."

She nodded, but I could see the frustration in her eyes. "I want to help. I can't just sit here and do nothing."

I admired her spirit, but I also knew the dangers that lay ahead. "Amara, your father needs you. We need you to be strong for him."

Her eyes flashed with defiance. "I'm not a child, Marco. I can handle myself."

"I know you can," I said softly, stepping closer. "But this isn't just about you. It's about the family. We need you to be safe."

For a moment, she looked like she might argue, but then she sighed, her shoulders sagging slightly. "I just hate feeling helpless."

"You’re far from helpless," I said, reaching out to touch her arm. "We'll get through this, together."

She looked up at me, her eyes searching mine. "Promise me, Marco. Promise me we'll make them pay."

"I promise," I said, my voice firm with conviction. "We'll make them regret ever crossing us."

Amara's POV:

The hours dragged on, filled with a restless energy that made it impossible to sit still. I stayed by my father's side, but my mind was with Marco and the others, strategizing and preparing for the coming storm. The attack on my father had changed everything, and I couldn't shake the feeling of impending danger that loomed over us.