A LOVE THAT KILLS

, the room quiet except for the faint sound of the oc

commands. There's something satisfying about the darkness in here, something that matches the coldness inside me. I've

circles where power, money, and control mean everything. People fear us

hind a legacy that looms over all of us. He was ruthless, driven, and brutal when

survival while solidifying its strength. I wasn't born w

your past-it cares about what

eness, and a level of violence that keeps people at arm's length. That's t

s, the better. The family is the only thin

sister, Serena, and my younger brother, Stefano, are

nd man. At 26, he's two years younger than me, but

e. He's the joker of the family, always throwing in a

nd that carefree exterior. I wouldn't have it any other way.

s. He knows how to handle pressure, and m

a sharp tongue and a will that matches her fire. She's always been different fr

bout her. She'll say what's on her mind, even if it gets her into trouble. Sometimes I wonder if s

into, and it's the life we're expected to uphold. The marriage is strategic-an alliance with another fa

ent in the way she carried herself. But she's learning, slow

will marry. She will do her duty

ever-efficient housekeeper and assistant, has been tasked w

r, other than that she's well-regarded in her field. Bu

as ever. She's been with the Costa family for years-l

e confirmed the wedding planner. Her name is Gra

I don't care about the specifics of wedding pla

want to hear about last-minute changes, crying brides, or de

she understands the importance of this wedding. It's not jus

no," Mrs. Hayes assures me, al

air, flipping through his phone. He doesn't care much for the form

k him, my voice sharp. "S

w, but if Mrs. Hayes says she's good,

chair, her hands folded in her lap. She watches us all, her presence a

now the answer. She doesn't concern herself with t

k with," she says softly. "But if she can do

much as she'll say. She doesn't like change, but she'

g up. "Let's move forward with this we

, shifts in her seat. Her eyes flicker with fru

ange the meeting with Hart

the silence of my office. I know what needs to be done. This wedding isn't just about Serena.

at message is heard l