Mixed blood

Chapter Six : Witten in blood

Article I: Mutual Support & Alliance

1. The Russo and Romero organizations shall provide each other with equal financial and physical support in times of need.

2. Both parties agree to facilitate looser trading and shipping arrangements between their organizations to maximize mutual profit.

3. A long-term commitment is established between both families, ensuring continued cooperation for future generations.

Article II: Knowledge of Movements & Operations

1. Both parties shall remain informed of the major operations and movements of each organization.

2. Any independent action taken without prior discussion shall be considered a breach of agreement, except in cases of emergency.

Article III: Marital Obligations

1. Luana Romero, upon marriage, is entitled to a safe and secure home, privacy, dignity, and full maintenance by William Russo.

2. Luana may continue her independent business ventures, provided they do not interfere with her responsibilities as a Russo wife.

3. William Russo is entitled to respect, unconditional obedience, an heir, and Luana's presence at any occasion he deems necessary.

4. William has the right to full satisfaction, including physical satisfaction, either from Luana or from a mistress of his choosing.

Article IV: Authority & Leadership

1. As Luana Russo, she shall no longer have a voice in the Romero mafia. Any decisions regarding the Romero organization shall be made by William Russo.

-----------

The golden crest of the Romano family gleamed at the head of the room, opposite the carved insignia of the Russo clan. The air was thick with the scent of cigars, whiskey, and power.

Luana stared at the contract laid out before her. A prison sentence disguised in ink and legal jargon, spelling out her duties, and his duties.

Luana Romano. Soon to be Luana Russo. A name foreign to her, a life she never wanted.

I am marrying my most hated arch-nemesis.

Italian. Another language. Another family. Another world. Another cage. 

The only small relief in this nightmare? At least they weren't taking her away from her family. Both mafias ruled their territories in New York. She wouldn't be exiled to Italy, forced to leave everything behind. She clung to that one small mercy like a lifeline.

But the rest of it? The wedding. The vows. The idea of being his wife... It made her sick.

"These are the standard terms in every Russo marriage alliance," Henry said in a clipped tone. "Equal support between organizations, looser trading and shipping arrangements, long-term commitment, mutual knowledge of operations—"

"But what is this?" William cut in, tapping his finger against a specific paragraph. His voice was casual, but there was a sharp edge to it. "An heir within a year? That was never discussed."

"Disculpe?" she hissed, her Spanish accent slipping through. "An heir within a year? Are you out of your minds?"

"It's a reasonable expectation," Henry said, his tone dismissive. "Ensuring the bloodline continues is part of the duty—"

"I don't give a damn about your expectations! I will not be treated like a breeding mare."

William sighed dramatically, running a hand through his dark hair. "For once, I agree with you." He looked at Henry. "If you think forcing a child into this mess will magically make us happy, then you clearly don't know your own son."