Page 113 of Mafia King's Forbidden Obsession

I smile, realizing he used my name instead of calling me ‘Boss’. That in itself confirms it— the time has indeed come.

“That folder contains the transfer of power for all of the warehouses and businesses used in the day-to-day operations, which I’ve already signed and stamped with the family crest. With immediate effect, I’m stepping down and transferring the leadership to you.”

Elio’s mouth drops open. He shakes his head in shock. “What? No.Non c'è modo(No way). What do you mean, stepping down?” He looks up from the papers, eyes wide. “You’re still young, strong. There’s no reason for this. You can still lead.”

“I’m done, Elio,” I reply, my voice firm. “I’ve been thinking about this for a while now. It’s time for a change.”

“Non fai sul serio(You’re not serious).” He looks down at the papers again and then back at me, disbelief still very evident on his face. “You’re one of the most powerful bosses in the mafia. All the others look up to you. You’ve built an empire. Why walk away now?”

“I’ve given enough of my life to this world. I’ve bled for it, fought for it. And for what? Power? Money? Elio, this life has cost me too much.” I pause, taking a breath, feeling the gravity of my next words. “There’s something more important in my life now—my family. My second chance. I cannot lose that. Not again. And you’ve proven more than capable.”

He blinks in realization. “Questo riguarda Raven... vero(This is about Raven... isn’t it)?”

“Sì.”Her name alone is enough to stir the emotions I’ve tucked away for weeks. “You do know she’s pregnant, Elio. She’s carrying my child. I can’t let history repeat itself…”

A glint of understanding shimmers in his eyes.

“Elio, you’ve been with me for years,” I say, getting up and stepping closer to him. “I trust you. The men respect you. You’re more than capable. It will be unfortunate if you turn it down.”

He looks down, shaking his head slowly. “I don’t know... I never thought I’d be in this position.”

“I feel you’re more than ready for it,” I insist. “I know I’m leaving you with some clean-up duties. You still have the FBI lurking around just waiting for our mafia to mess up. And with me killing Frank, I’m sure they are going to come down hard, so watch your back. But like I said... this life isn’t mine anymore.” I place a hand on his shoulder, and raise a brow at him. “Unless you don’t want it.”

The room grows quiet as Elio processes it all. Then, with a sharp exhale, he chuckles lightly before he finally nods. “If this is really what you want, then...lo farò(I’ll do it).”

“Lo è(It is),” I nod.

As I move to leave, Elio's voice stops me. “Cosa farai adesso(What will you do now)?”

I stop at the door, a small smile breaking free. “Be with Raven. Be with my family.”

For the first time in years, as I step out into the hallway, I feel lighter.

I feel free.

Chapter thirty-seven

Raven

The rich scent of garlic and basil fills the kitchen as my pasta dish simmers on the stove. I softly hum while stirring the sauce. Cooking has always served as a form of therapy for me, helping to calm my nerves, and after today’s stress at work, it’s definitely needed.

I’m stretching for the salt on the short cabinet when I spot a figure standing behind me from the microwave reflection. I immediately squeal and turn around, jumping back in fear. My fear morphs into shock and my heart tugs as I stare at Ezra, who’s leaning against the center counter with that familiar smirk on his face.

I hadn’t even heard him come in.

“Jesus, Ezra!” I gasp, gripping the counter to steady myself. “Do you want to give me a heart attack?”

“Relax,cara(dear).” His low chuckle fills the room while he folds his arms.

“Remind me, do you leave the door unlocked as an open invitation, or is your security just this charmingly terrible?” he teases, his smirk deepening.

Shaking my head, I push past the well of emotions within me and grab the jar of salt again, sprinkling it into the sauce before setting it aside. “Maybe it’s not my security that’s the issue," I retort, a smile appearing on my face. “Maybe it’s you and your freaky ninja skills.”

Ezra’s chuckle is low, and he steps closer. “Ninja skills? I like that. Maybe I should put that on my résumé.”

I scowl as I lower the stove, trying to catch my breath and ignoring the way my pulse quickens at the sight of him.

It’s been two weeks since I last saw Ezra, and the absence had gnawed at me in ways I wasn’t prepared for. A part of me thought I’d never see him again. I start stirring the sauce again, anything to keep my hands busy as my mind races.

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