Chapter 1 - The Cold Marble Foyer
The luxurious American marble foyer was a masterpiece of wealth, illuminated by a towering, multi-tiered crystal chandelier that cast a harsh, bright light over the pristine floors. But the cinematic elegance of the room was completely shattered by the venomous hatred echoing off the stone walls.
"Get out of my house!"
Isabella’s harsh, furious voice ripped through the heavy silence. The elegant woman, dressed in a flawless designer gown, stood near the front doors. Her arm was raised high in the air, her hand curled back, ready to deliver a devastating strike to the tiny, terrified child standing below her.
Three-year-old Sophie cowered, her dark curls bouncing as she squeezed her eyes shut. She was wearing a simple yellow dress, the front of it smudged with a tiny, harmless chocolate stain.
But before Isabella could bring her hand down for a second time, the heavy mahogany front doors swung open.
Stepping out of the freezing New York night was Dante Moretti. The 41-year-old mafia boss wore a tailored charcoal suit that clung perfectly to his broad shoulders. His presence alone caused the temperature in the foyer to instantly plummet.
Sophie didn't scream or cry. Ignoring Isabella entirely, the little girl turned and ran on her tiny legs, wrapping her small arms tightly around Dante’s tailored leg.
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"Uncle Dante," Sophie whispered, her quiet, innocent voice shaking. "I only ate one cookie."
👉 Isabella thought she was punishing a worthless child, but Dante’s eyes were about to lock onto a detail that would freeze her blood.
