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"Thank you, but I won’t stay long,” Luca replies, his gaze flicking to me again. “I just need a few minutes of your time."
“Of course, of course. We can step into my study.”
My heart is pounding so hard I’m sure everyone can hear it. This is it. The moment everything changes.
“Actually,” Luca says smoothly, “what I have to discuss concerns your daughter as well.”
My father’s eyebrows shoot up. “Lily?”
I rise on shaky legs, feeling every eye in the room turn to me. Mom looks confused, Dad suspicious, and the dinner guests are practically salivating at the unexpected drama unfolding before them.
“Yes,” I hear myself say, my voice surprisingly steady. “I think I should be part of this conversation."
Dad’s eyes narrow, darting between Luca and me. For the first time, I see a flicker of realization in his expression. “My study, then. Now.”
As I follow them out of the dining room, my mother catches my wrist, her nails digging into my skin. “What have you done?” she hisses.
I meet her eyes, suddenly feeling stronger. “Something for myself, for once.”
I pull away and walk toward my future, terrified but certain. Whatever happens next, there’s no going back. I’ve chosen Luca Ravello—or perhaps he’s chosen me—and God help anyone who tries to stand in our way.
Chapter 22
Luca
I stepinto Governor Moore’s study, the smell of leather and cigar smoke hanging in the air. I’ve been in this room countless times over the years, negotiating deals that benefited us both. But tonight is different. Tonight, I’m not here for business—at least not the kind he’s accustomed to.
Lily follows us in, her midnight blue dress clinging to curves I’ve already memorized with my hands and mouth. The sight of her makes my blood run hot. Mine. Soon, everyone will know it.
“Close the door,” I tell her, my voice low but commanding.
She obeys without hesitation, and the look of trust in her eyes nearly undoes me. She already has such power over me. It’s terrifying and exhilarating all at once.
Governor Moore settles behind his massive oak desk, already reaching for the crystal decanter of bourbon. His hand trembles slightly. Good. He should be nervous.
“What’s this about, Ravello?” he asks, trying to sound authoritative. “I’ve got a dinner party waiting.”
I remain standing, positioning myself near Lily. Close enough to touch her, but I refrain for now.
“I’ll be direct, Jackson,” I say, dropping the formalities. “I’m in love with your daughter.”
The Governor freezes, tumbler halfway to his lips. “Excuse me?"
“I’m in love with Lily,” I repeat, my voice steady. “And I intend to marry her.”
The glass slams down on the desk, bourbon sloshing over the rim. “What the fuck are you talking about?” His face flushes an ugly red. “This is a joke, right?”
“It’s not a joke, Dad,” Lily says, her voice small but determined.
Jackson’s eyes bulge as he looks between us. “How—when did this—” He stands abruptly, pointing a finger at me. “You stay the hell away from my daughter. She’s a goddamn teenager!"
“I’m almost twenty,” Lily interjects, lifting her chin.
“And he’s pushing forty!” Jackson roars. “Jesus Christ, Lily, he’s twice your age!”
I remain calm, watching him unravel. It’s always been his weakness—that temper. Makes him sloppy.
“I’m a grown woman,” Lily says, stepping closer to me. “I can choose who I love.”
