Under The Crimson Veil

her decision pressed down like a physical force. The polished mahogany desk was immaculate, save for a single photograph framed in silver-a younger version o

d Luca entered without knocking. His sharp suit was slightly rumpled, and the faint shad

said, his tone curt. "This hous

hing an eyebrow. "And here I though

d to the bar in the corner of the room, pouring himself a glass of whiskey. He didn't

g a sip. "They're loyal, but loyalty

ade it clear what you think

eading this family isn't like running a business or arguing in court.

ervous habit she hadn't managed to break. "Y

harpening. "Or someone else will take your place, an

hen help me," she said, meeting his gaze. "If you're s

ss down and crossed the room, standing directly in front of her. His presence w

what it takes?" he asked,

hesitation, though her hear

t and who you can't. It takes making decisions that will haunt you for the rest of yo

ver down her spine. She wanted to loo

id again, her voice sof

ession guarded. "Tomorrow.

e turned and left the room,

st to the opulent décor above. The concrete walls were bare, and the space smelled faintly of s

sed in workout gear. He handed her a pair of glove

aid. "If someone comes for you, your

he rough material against her skin.

ter than they can shoot,"

er on everything from blocking punches to breaking holds. He moved with a prec

rt was damp with sweat. She leaned against the wall, trying t

ht," he admitted, though his

ent," she muttered, wiping her f

s is just the beginning. If you want to survive in this wo

meeting his gaze. "T

father's files. Every decision felt like a test, every interaction a potential betrayal. The captains re

s methods were harsh, but they worked. She began to see the world through his eyes

rning from the strain of reading. A soft knock on the door startl

said, placing it on th

ned the contents. It was a report on the Corsettis,

," Luca said, his voice low

s terrifying, but she knew Luca was right. Waiting would o

est?" she asked,

angerous smile. "Somethi

fidence, although She didn'