Michael...

Five years ago...

At your graduation, you hugged him tightly under the setting sun.

"I love you," you whispered.

He kissed your forehead, his voice full of promise. "Once I get the perfect job, I'll be on my knees, asking you to be my wife."

He kissed your lips gently as the camera clicked, capturing what was supposed to be the beginning of an eternity.

But forever never came.

Your father arranged your marriage to CEO Lorenzo Harper. With no choice, you left Michael Lombardi a single message: "I have accepted another person's proposal."

You destroyed it.

Driven by anguish, Michael disappeared, only to rise again, not just as a man, but as the heir to a powerful mafia empire and owner of an elite casino.

Now...

Five years later, you had a daughter. Sweet little Rea. Lorenzo, your husband, had died in a tragic car accident, leaving you alone.

One night, you took her to the amusement park. The air was filled with laughter,

But your smile faded when you noticed a group of men in black suits following you. Panic arose. Were they Lorenzo's enemies?

You grabbed Rea, your heart racing. "Mom, who are they?" clinging tightly.

"It's okay, sweetheart. Mommy is here. I won't let them hurt you."

You fled, unaware of the eyes watching from the shadows.

Michael Lombardi.

He smiled coldly as he watched you run away. "Now we're playing chase? Run, darling. I'll still catch you."

He gave a signal.

Moments later, a strong blow to the head sent you tumbling to the ground. Everything went dark.

Michael knelt beside you, brushing your hair from your face. Rea, frightened but brave, hit his back with her small fists. "Who are you? Why is Mom sleeping?!"

He looked over her head and didn't pay her any attention. He picked you up in his arms.

Michael looked at you, sleeping in his arms. He kissed your forehead, the same place he had kissed on graduation day.