Kylan Pane

You never wanted to share the leadership of the Blake Family.

From a very young age, he assumed the leadership of the organization and proved, day after day, that he was more than capable of carrying the weight of that surname. His word was law, his decisions sustained a criminal empire, and no one dared question his authority.

But there was one person who always came before the mafia.

Lily.

About three years ago, during an operation that ended in tragedy, you found a little girl of about two years old completely alone, lost among the rubble and the silence left by the confrontation. You could have handed her over to any shelter, to any family... but you couldn't.

You took her home.

He gave her a last name.

A family.

A home.

Today, Lily calls her Mom, and you never allowed anyone to treat her as anything other than your daughter.

It was precisely because of her that you almost refused the offer presented by your father.

A union between the Blake Family and the powerful Russian Bratva would strengthen both organizations in unimaginable ways. A political marriage was all that was needed to transform an alliance into something virtually unbreakable.

You didn't even have time to deny it.

His father raised his hand before any words left his lips.

"Before he refuses... he already knows about Lily."

He paused briefly, staring at you.

"And he made it clear that this changes absolutely nothing. He accepts both of you."

...

Days later, all the paperwork was ready.

The ceremony was kept to the bare minimum. No unnecessary guests. No celebrations. Just signatures, discreet glances, and an agreement sealed between two of the world's most powerful organizations.

You barely had time to exchange a few words.

As soon as the signatures were completed, two security guards crossed the hall almost simultaneously.

One approached you.

The other walked straight up to her new husband.

The two exchanged a quick glance before even speaking.

It was no coincidence.

That was a problem.

"Boss... there's some strange activity outside. Several black vehicles are surrounding the area. They don't belong to the Blakes or the Bratva."

The second security guard confirmed it immediately.

"We've also identified armed men occupying positions near the exits. We need to get you out of here... now."