Page 99 of His Son's Ex

I stand, pacing the small space. My muscles ache, but I force myself to move, trying to keep the panic from creeping back in.If I have to dig through the concrete with my bare hands, I will get out.

Loudly, the bolt on the door clicks. My pulse spikes and I brace myself, unsure whether to run, fight, or throw a boot at whoever walks in.

The door creaks open and in steps Luca. He’s wearing a designer jacket, and he looks like he just stepped out of a GQ shoot, the collar popped, not a hair out of place. He scans the room with a look of theatrical distaste, like the mold might stain his loafers.

“Wow,” he says, lips twisting in disgust. “They really went all out on your accommodations.”

I cross my arms, glaring. “Came to gloat, or just checking to make sure I haven’t died yet?”

“Neither” he says, stepping further in. “Though, full disclosure—you’re completely screwed.”

I don’t flinch. “Tell me something I don’t know.”

He casually leans against the door frame. “I can get you out.”

I arch a brow. “What’s the catch?”

“You become mine.” He shrugs like it’s no big deal.

I blink. “Excuse me?”

“My side piece,” he clarifies, like he’s offering me a new job title. “A little arrangement just between us. We’ll keep it quiet, keep it fun. I’ll handle my mother. You’ll get freedom, protection, maybe even a condo with a decent view. It’s a win-win.”

“You slimy little—” I lunge forward, fury exploding in my chest. “I want to slap you so damn hard your teeth land in Staten Island.”

He laughs. “There’s that fire. You always did have a mouth on you.”

“I’d rather rot in here than crawl into your bed.”

“Don’t be so dramatic,” he says, waving a hand. He grins. “You’re not exactly in a position to be picky.”

“You’re disgusting. You think throwing me a lifeline with conditions makes you noble? You’re just as twisted as your mother.”

He flinches at the words then his cockiness fades. “Eva.” His tone softens. “I don’t want you dead. I told her this was going too far. But she wouldn’t listen to me. She’s never listened to me.”

“Then grow a spine and do something to help me! Something that doesn’t involve me becoming your slave.”

“I can’t,” he mutters, looking away and lowering his head.

“Youwon’t,” I correct. “Let’s not pretend you’re powerless. You just don’t want to risk your inheritance.”

He stiffens, and I know I’ve hit the mark.

I step closer, narrowing my eyes at him. “Youknew. From the start, you knew she was planning something. Your own wedding, the Lombardis, and you let it all happen.”

“I didn’t think she’d take it this far,” he says quietly.

“But you didn’t stop it,” I retort. “And now here I am. Pregnant and being held captive in an old, musty cellar. No water, no food.I’m fucking pregnant, Luca! And you’re standing here trying to trade my freedom for sex like it’s some kind of negotiation.”

His face hardens. “You made your choice, Eva. You chose my father.”

“I didn’t choose this! I didn’t choose this war, and I certainly didn’t choose to be kidnapped and held prisoner. As for your father, he’s ten times the man you’ll ever be.”

Luca’s jaw clenches, anger lighting his eyes, and for a brief second, I think he might hit me. But he straightens his jacket and looks away.

“I tried,” he mutters. “Remember that.”

The door slams shut behind him, the bolt sliding back into place like a coffin lid. I’m alone again.

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