Page 19 of Secret Revenge

“First, we find out the truth about your mother’s death,” I said, my voice firm with determination. “And then we expose the mole and bring them to justice.”

“Can you promise me that?” she asked, her eyes pleading for reassurance.

“Without a doubt.” My hand found hers, our fingers intertwining as I looked into her eyes. “I will protect you, Liliana. And I will find who killed your mother. No matter what it takes.”

Her gaze held mine for a moment longer before she nodded slowly, accepting my vow. We sat in silence for a moment, the weight of our situation heavy on our shoulders.

The weight of our intertwined hands and the heaviness in Liliana’s eyes anchored me to the present, a reminder of the stakes we faced. I couldn’t afford any missteps in this dangerous game.

“Nicholas,” Liliana said, her voice barely above a whisper but laced with a steel that surprised me. “I want to help.”

“Help?” My eyebrows shot up in disbelief, yet I couldn’t ignore the fierce determination burning in her deep brown eyes. “Liliana, you know how dangerous this is. I won’t let you put yourself in harm’s way.”

“Nobody would expect me to be involved,” she countered, her gaze unwavering. “That could be our advantage. I know my family better than anyone else.”

I hesitated, torn between the desire to protect her and the undeniable fact that her involvement might be the key to unlocking the truth. The air felt thick, suffocating as I grappled with the decision before us.

“Nicholas, I can’t sit idly by while you risk your life for me.” Her words were soft, but resolute. “Please, let me do this. Let me work by your side.”

My pulse thundered in my ears as I considered her plea. In the end, it was the fire in her eyes that broke through my reluctance; I couldn’t deny her this chance to reclaim control over her own life.

“Alright,” I conceded, the word heavy on my tongue. “But we proceed with caution. The moment I sense danger, you step back. Understand?”

Her face lit up with relief and gratitude, and she nodded fervently. “Thank you, Nicholas. And when we find out who killed her, I’ll exact the revenge.”

“Good,” I said, my heart still pounding from the gravity of our decision. “Now we need to plan our next move.”

As we began to strategize, I admired the strength and intelligence Liliana possessed. There was no question that she was a force to be reckoned with, and together we would face the darkness that threatened to consume us.

As we plotted late into the night, I couldn’t shake the feeling that we were hurtling towards an abyss, our fates uncertain. But one thing remained clear: whatever dangers lay ahead, Liliana and I would confront them side by side, bound by our love and resolve. For in this world of treachery and deceit, there was only one truth I could cling to – my unwavering devotion to the woman who had captured my heart.

Chapter 9

Liliana

The moment the dining room doors swung open, I saw Jocelyn and Abby hesitantly enter. Their eyes widened at the sight of the small breakfast spread before them. I’d instructed Gina to make only eggs, bacon, and toast. I pushed down the seething rage that threatened to bubble up within me, knowing it wasn’t their fault Luca had mistreated them. Instead, I mustered a warm smile and gestured to the empty seats at the table.

“Please, join me,” I urged, my voice soft. The pair had remained cloistered in their room since arriving at our home, fear keeping them hidden away. It was heartening to see them finally venture out.

“Momma, will Daddy find us now that we’re out here?” Abby whispered, her small voice trembling. The innocence in her question cut through me like a knife, reminding me of the shadows that still clung to this family.

“Abby, sweetheart,” Jocelyn reassured her daughter, gently stroking her hair. “We are safe in Mr. Romano’s house. You can go into any public rooms without worrying about anyone.”

Despite Jocelyn’s words, I could see the doubt flicker across Abby’s face. She didn’t believe her mother, and I couldn’t blame her for it – I’m sure any trust she had in the world had been stolen by her father.

“Take your time getting used to the house and your new freedom,” I told them, attempting to ease their apprehensions. “There’s no rush.”

As I watched them settle into their seats, I felt a fierce protectiveness flare within me. This mother and daughter deserved better, and I vowed to do everything in my power to give them the safety they so desperately needed.

As Jocelyn and Abby took their first tentative bites of breakfast, I observed them carefully, noting the way Jocelyn’s eyes darted around the room. The tension hung heavy in the air, like a storm waiting to break. It was time to address the elephant in the corner.

“Jocelyn,” I began, “I know you must have a lot on your mind right now, but I wanted to talk with you about your future plans.” I paused for a moment, giving her the space she needed to think. “We want to help you build a life that’s both safe and fulfilling for you and Abby.”

Her gaze shifted to me, uncertain and hesitant, as if she were testing the waters before diving in. After a long moment, Jocelyn spoke, her voice barely audible. “I don’t ever want to be involved with the mafia again,” she confessed, her words laced with vulnerability. “I just... I want a peaceful life for Abby and me.”

My heart ached at her admission, and I felt the weight of responsibility settle upon my shoulders. I didn’t know how she had come to marry Luca, but it would be my honor to keep her out of his grasp.

“Your feelings are completely understandable,” I assured her, my own emotions simmering beneath the surface. “You’ve been through so much, and it’s only natural to desire peace and stability.”

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