Mixed blood

Chapter four : It was dark

The next morning, Frederick forced Luana into the car without much of a conversation. His stern expression told her everything she needed to know-there was no escaping this meeting.

They drove to the Russo estate, Luana sat silently, fuming, her mind racing with thoughts of rebellion, but for now, she had to play along.

They arrived at the grand mansion, where Henry Russo, Will's father, greeted them at the door with a broad smile.

"Frederick!" Henry exclaimed, shaking his hand firmly. "It's been far too long, my friend. And this must be your lovely daughter, Luana!"

Luana gave him a soft, angelic smile. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Russo."

Henry's eyes gleamed with approval as he looked her over. "What a beauty you are. Frederick, you didn't exaggerate one bit. She's absolutely stunning. William is going to be a lucky man."

Frederick forced a smile, "Yes, well, I'm sure we're all eager to move things along. Henry, about the-"

"Oh, yes, the wedding!" Henry interrupted, his enthusiasm palpable. "We should have everything prepared soon. No sense in waiting too long, right? Once the arrangements are made, we'll get this union set. It will be good for both our families." He glanced at Luana. "Don't worry, dear, we'll take care of everything. You won't have to lift a finger."

Luana nodded, her stomach twisting as Henry continued talking about the wedding as if it were just another business deal.

But from the way he spoke, it was clear he had no idea about the events of last night.

Frederick cleared his throat, trying to steer the conversation. "Henry, there's something I need to discuss. About last night-"

"Oh, yes, I heard there was a bit of a scuffle," Henry waved his hand dismissively. "Boys being boys. They were bound to clash sooner or later with everything going on, but I'm sure they'll sort it out."

Frederick hesitated, unsure of how much Henry knew. "You haven't spoken to William about it?"

Henry chuckled. "Will doesn't live here, you know. He's got his own place. Independent as ever. But don't worry, I can call him. I'm sure he'll be thrilled to join us for lunch. This will be a great opportunity for him to meet Luana properly."

Frederick exchanged a glance with Luana, who remained composed despite the tension bubbling beneath the surface.

"That would be... ideal," Frederick said carefully.

Henry clapped his hands together. "Great! I'll give him a call right now. We'll have a nice family meal and get things moving. This marriage is going to be perfect."

Henry stepped away to make the call, Frederick leaned in closer to Luana, his voice low. "Remember, we play this carefully. Don't give anything away."

Luana nodded, "Don't worry, dad."

William arrived at the Russo estate for lunch, his presence commanding attention as he walked into the grand dining room where Luana, her father, and Henry were waiting.

He was dressed impeccably, his posture casual yet exuding authority, with no visible signs of the injury he had sustained the night before.

Luana and Frederick couldn't help but scan him closely, searching for any indication of the stab wound, but to their surprise, he looked completely fine. Not even a limp.

"Will!" Henry greeted his son warmly, clapping him on the shoulder as he approached the table. "Glad you could make it, son. I want to introduce you to Frederick and his lovely daughter, Luana."