Chapter 4 - GILDED CAGES
Within twenty-four hours, my life was packed into six designer suitcases and relocated to the penthouse of the Moretti Tower, a fortress of glass and steel overlooking the Chicago skyline. There were no white roses here, only sleek black marble, dark leather, and the heavy, undeniable presence of a man who commanded a criminal empire.
“Your suite is down the hall,” Nikolai said, pouring two glasses of scotch as I surveyed the living room. “We have three weeks until the Council convenes to choose my father's successor. Until then, you are seen by my side. You wear my ring. You smile for the cameras, and you do not answer calls from your family.”
I took the crystal glass from him. “I don't intend to. But Julian won't take this quietly. He thinks he’s the heir.”
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“Julian is a terrified child playing dress-up,” Nikolai murmured, leaning against the bar. “But he is desperate, and desperate men are dangerous. You will have security with you at all times. Rocco and Dante will be your shadows.” I looked at the two massive men standing by the elevator, who gave me respectful nods. It was suffocating, yet thrilling. For the first time in my life, I wasn't an afterthought. I was a high-value asset. “Are you scared, Evelyn?” Nikolai asked, his gaze piercing through my defenses.
“No,” I answered honestly, taking a sip of the burning liquor. “I’m angry. Anger is a much better motivator.” Nikolai’s eyes darkened with raw appreciation. He stepped into my space, his body heat radiating against mine. “Good. Hold onto that fire. We’re going to need it to burn their world to the ground.”
