Beneath the mask
ny fingers. Elena sat curled up in the window seat of her bedroom, her favorite book resting in h
called from the doorway, pul
softened by something she couldn't quite name. At 17, Elena had grown use
d, closing her book a
he hardwood floor. He hesitated for a moment, as if choosing his wor
important" things. She was kept in the dark, shielded from the
y but laced with an emotion Elena couldn't place. "And
echoed, confusion knit
"Elena, our family... we have certain obligations. And
A marriage?" she whispered, her voice tremblin
though his eyes betrayed a flicker of guilt. "Th
ed. "Who am I su
replied, his tone leavin
the Moretti family-ruthless, powerful, and dangerous. She had neve
d, tears welling in her e
t what you want, Elena. It's about survival. Lu
ughts. She stared out the window, the rain blurring the world outside. H
as she buttoned her blouse. She had no idea what to expect, b
oat. She descended the staircase, her father waiting
aight through her. He wore a tailored suit, his posture exuding confidence and power. Ele
is voice unnaturally cheerf
ng hers. "Elena," he said, his voice low a
t was pounding. "Likewise," she repli
her life was no longer her own. But deep down, a spark of defi
e was terrified of him. And their meeting was only the begin