Crimson vows

**Chapter 17: Setting the Trap**

Luca's POV

Valentina is stronger than she knows. I see it in the way her jaw sets as she listens, the way she nods with steely determination. She's scared, yes—but that fear hasn't broken her. Instead, it's sharpened her edges. And somehow, that knowledge both fills me with pride and leaves a dull ache in my chest.

I don't want her in this world. But with Matvey forcing her hand, she's chosen to stand by me instead of running. It means more than she'll ever know, but it's also a risk I'm not willing to take lightly.

"First things first," I say, leaning over the table where I've laid out maps and intel. "Matvey's men are on the move. They're desperate, and desperation makes them reckless. If we play our cards right, we can use that against them."

Valentina watches me intently, her eyes flickering with both fear and something close to resolve. "What's the plan?"

"We'll lure him out," I reply, tracing a line on the map. "But we need a controlled environment, somewhere he won't see it coming."

Her brows knit together as she studies the map. "You're going to draw him out with me as bait, aren't you?"

I don't answer right away. The idea makes my blood boil, but she's not wrong. "Only if we can ensure your safety, Valentina. I'm not risking you if there's any other way."

She nods slowly, her lips pressing into a tight line. "Then let's do it. I want this to be over as much as you do."

The courage in her voice is fierce, unbreakable. But there's a flicker of vulnerability in her gaze too—one she can't hide, not from me. I reach out, resting a hand on her shoulder, feeling the warmth of her skin beneath my fingertips.

"I'll be with you every step of the way," I say softly, my voice low. "You won't be alone in this."

She lets out a breath, her shoulders relaxing just a little. "I trust you, Luca."

The weight of her words settles deep in my chest, solidifying the responsibility I already feel. I would burn the entire world down to keep her safe. And if it comes to that, I won't hesitate.

Valentina's POV

I watch Luca as he maps out our plan, his movements precise and calculated. It's easy to see why people follow him—he commands respect, his presence radiating confidence and strength. But there's something more, a gentleness he hides beneath that tough exterior, and it's that side of him that keeps me grounded.

The idea of using myself as bait terrifies me, but the thought of ending this nightmare—of finally taking back control—is stronger. If this is what it takes to bring Matvey down, then so be it.

"Tell me what to do," I say, my voice steady, even though my heart is racing.

Luca pauses, studying me with an intensity that makes my skin prickle. "Are you sure you're ready for this?"

I nod. "I need to be. I'm tired of running, Luca. I want to stand and fight."

His gaze softens, and for a moment, I think he might reach for me, might pull me into his arms and promise to keep me safe forever. But he holds back, giving me space to stand on my own two feet.

"All right," he says. "Here's how it's going to work."

He explains the plan, outlining every detail, every backup scenario. It's intricate, carefully crafted, and I can see how much thought he's put into it. By the time he's done, I feel a surge of determination I didn't know I had.

"Got it?" he asks, his tone sharp, businesslike.

I nod, feeling a strange sense of calm wash over me. "Got it."