She is the Queen

Chapter 13

Waking up in the familiar surroundings of my own room, my own house, with the people I have known since birth was the greatest relief I could have asked for. While my time at that place was not always easy, it wasn't a complete torture either. There were moments when I genuinely enjoyed his company and he showed kindness. I can't help but wonder if he found the letter I left behind, explaining my reasons for leaving.

Today, I woke up much later than usual, savoring the feeling of being in my own comfort zone once again. I took a long, hot shower in the privacy of my own bathroom, using my own preferred products. It was a small luxury that I had missed greatly. After drying my hair, I dressed in comfortable black leggings, a dark grey sports bra, and a loose sporty top. With each familiar item of clothing I put on, I felt more and more like myself again.

Heading downstairs, I knew that it was time to have a serious conversation, one that would likely be lengthy. I wanted to address everything, to clear the air and find closure. There were so many questions I needed to ask, so many things I needed to say. We needed to talk openly and honestly, no matter how difficult it might be.

As I approached the living room, I saw my dad and Jack sitting there, waiting for me. I could see the concern and worry in their eyes, but also the relief at having me home again. Without hesitation, I walked over to them and hugged them tightly. I had missed them so much and was grateful to be back with them.

Taking a seat beside them, I knew it was time to begin the conversation. There were tears shed, emotions expressed, and ultimately, forgiveness and understanding reached. It was not an easy process, but it was necessary for all of us to move forward. We talked for hours, putting everything on the table, and slowly but surely, we found a sense of closure.

That day marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life, one free from the constraints of that oppressive place. I was surrounded by love, understanding, and support from those who mattered most. And although the scars of my past would always be with me, I knew that with their help, I could heal and find happiness once again.

---- 

And with that I started to tell them everything, from the four guys in the club to how I found out that his plan was to occupy France, then how we moved to the safe house, my little plan with Jack that helped me escape and about the dinner we had to identify the traitor. I, of course, didn't mention about the kiss or anything romantic, but also told him that Andrea was very kind and have never abused me in any way. 

Then I asked them. "So Ellis?"

"Upon receiving your message about the traitor, everything suddenly clicked into place. It all made sense - who it was, how they were involved, and why you had to run away. We wasted no time in taking action.

In his office, we found the evidence we needed - a phone that he had been using to contact Garavelo. It was clear that he had been working against us all along. However, we couldn't risk alerting him to your escape plan, so we had to be strategic. We kept him occupied with extra paperwork, keeping him unaware of our true intentions.

As soon as we had you safely on the helicopter, Chain and our trusted men took him into the interrogation room. We needed to extract as much information as possible - to understand the extent of his betrayal and any potential threats that might still be lurking. Our priority was to ensure your safety and the safety of all those involved.

It has always been a mystery to me why Garavelo took you in the first place. We had no conflicts, no reasons for him to target you. Perhaps it was a twisted power play, an attempt to assert control over territories. He occupied South America, while I focused on Europe. Our paths should have never crossed, but fate had a different plan.

Rest assured, we will get to the bottom of this. We will uncover his motives, expose his network, and bring justice to those who deserve it. Our alliance, our collaboration, has never been more important. Together, we will dismantle the web of corruption that Garavelo has spun." My father finished.

My grandad, who had remained silent during the conversation, turned towards me as he put one of his hands on my shoulder and his face turned serious.

"I think I know why. I just need some time to verify it for sure."

I nodded at him but he continued, "Laila, words cannot express how proud I am of you. From the moment I received the text you sent to your father just before your kidnapping, I knew deep down that you possessed a strength, resilience, and determination that could withstand any trial or tribulation. You are a remarkably special gift, a testament to your mother's legacy, and our most cherished asset in this world.

Today, I offer you something that I have never offered anyone before. Your father is aware, and we both believe that you are more than ready for this next step. As you know, my territory lies in Europe, where we are feared and revered. However, circumstances have led me to see that we need more power here in the United States, all because of you.

I invite you, Laila, to become the head of the Dilucia Mob here in America. It is time for you to ensure that every dark business is conducted under our watchful eye. Every soulful individual should tremble at the mere mention of our clan's name. I want you to possess a level of authority and respect that no one would dare challenge.

You have proven time and again that you are not to be underestimated. You have faced dangers head-on and emerged victorious. Now, it is time for you to be as ruthless as I am and as calculating as your mother. Show the world what your father has taught you throughout the years - your exceptional management and business skills. Though you may be only 17 years old, you possess an awareness and knowledge far superior to any of us. I trust you, my beautiful girl, with this monumental responsibility.

Before your mother, I was a different man. I believed that women were delicate and incapable of the feats achieved by men in the mafia world. But your mother proved me wrong. She rose above every challenge, defying expectations with her strength and cunning. Sadly, I held her back at times, hesitant to fully embrace her capabilities. Now, with you, I want to rectify that mistake. I want to support and encourage you in becoming the leader you were born to be. That's what my daughter would have wanted me to do.

Know that your father and I love you unconditionally. We believe in you and your ability to succeed. Should you ever doubt yourself, remember that you carry within you the legacy of two extraordinary individuals. Embrace your destiny, my dear Laila, and let the world witness the force of your power.".

My heart swelled with emotion as I met my grandad's gaze. His eyes held me in a warm, tender embrace, his words cascading over me like a gentle shower. Unbeknownst to me, tears welled up in my eyes, their presence a testament to the overwhelming power of his heartfelt words. I quickly regained my composure, determined not to let a single tear escape. I was resolute - I don't cry. Crying is a sign of weakness, and weakness has no place in my world.

In that moment, as I straightened myself, I realized that a smile had unknowingly etched itself upon my face. And when my grandad's smile mirrored mine, I felt an inexplicable sense of warmth and affirmation. I reached out, gently placing my hand on his shoulder, a gesture of silent understanding. And with a nod, I conveyed to him the depth of my love.

"I love you too," I whispered, my voice filled with unwavering sincerity. Our worlds collided in that embrace, two generations bound together by an unbreakable bond.

I pulled him into another heartfelt hug, soaking in the love and wisdom that radiated from his very being. As I released him, my gaze met my father's, a silent exchange of love and support passing between us. In that moment, I knew without a shadow of doubt that I was prepared for whatever challenges lay ahead. Nothing could hold me back now.