Mixed blood

Chapter 22 : Chivalrous

Luana stepped out of her laboratory, adjusting her coat as the cool breeze hit her face. Her thoughts were on meeting Suzy for their planned outing when a familiar, imposing figure stepped into view.

It was Henry.

"Good afternoon, Luana," he greeted, his tone smooth yet authoritative.

She paused, her brows furrowing slightly in confusion. "What a surprise. What brings you here?"

"I wanted to see the wonders my daughter-in-law has been working on. After all, it's not every day you marry someone so accomplished."

"Well, thank you, but I'm actually in a bit of a hurry. I'm meeting my friend Suzy."

Henry's smile didn't falter, but there was an undeniable firmness in his next words. "Cancel it. I'd like us to spend some time together. Call it... bonding."

Her lips parted in mild surprise, and a flicker of malice crossed her features before she composed herself. "Of course, I suppose Suzy will understand."

He inclined his head, gesturing for her to lead the way. She guided him back into the laboratory, where the sterile, cutting-edge environment buzzed with quiet activity.

She began the tour, pointing out the equipment, ongoing experiments, and breakthroughs her team had accomplished.

He listened intently, occasionally nodding or making a thoughtful remark. "Impressive. You've managed to create a world here that thrives on innovation. It's remarkable."

"Thank you. Maybe one day, I'll get to see what you've achieved too."

"Then let's not wait for 'one day.' I'll show you now."

He took her to his company headquarters—a towering building that exuded power and wealth.

He gestured around them as they walked through sleek corridors adorned with artwork and portraits of prominent figures.

"This is where it all started. From a small office to an empire. It wasn't easy. Every corner of this place carries a memory of struggle and triumph."

Luana's gaze softened, her genuine interest breaking through. "You must have been so determined to build something like this. Did you ever feel like giving up?"

"Giving up was never an option."

"I suppose, in your own way, you've achieved your version of innovation too. But I believe the mafia's funds had played a great part in your success."

He paused, studying her intently for a moment before nodding. "You have a sharp mind, Luana. I can see why William respects you."

Luana shot at him, "Respect is earned. Just like trust."

"You earned a visit to my source of my success."

He led Luana into the heart of his sprawling warehouse, the true epicenter of his mafia's power.

The cold, metallic scent of the place mixed with the distant sounds of training-grunts, clashing metal, and shouted commands echoing through the vast space.

Luana's sharp eyes took in everything: the rows of weapons, the stern-faced men sparring on mats, and the meticulous organization of a well-oiled, dangerous machine.

Her skepticism grew with every step. Why bring her here? Was this an attempt to intimidate her? To show off his empire? Or was there something more insidious at play?

Her thoughts flashed back to William's tales about his father. This man who had once stabbed his own son during a brutal training session without a flicker of hesitation. He didn't shy away from blood, even his own kid's.