Chapter 7 - THE WOLVES' BANQUETThe engagement gala was held at the Grand Plaza Hotel—a glittering spectacle of crystal chandeliers, silk gowns, and men wearing tailored suits over bulletproof vests. I wore a crimson silk dress, my hair swept up, with the sapphire locket hidden beneath my bodice.
Antonio held my hand as we walked through the double doors, introducing me to the heads of the major crime families. I smiled, pretending to be the poised mafia princess they expected, though my heart was hammering against my ribs.
Suddenly, the crowd parted. Dante Moretti stepped forward. He was a middle-aged man with sharp, predatory eyes, a scarred jawline, and a sickeningly sweet smile.
"Ah, the long-lost daughter," Dante purred, bowing mockingly over my hand. "You look remarkably like your mother, Sophie. She was a beautiful woman... right up until the day her car went off the bridge."
"Keep your mouth shut, Dante," Antonio growled, stepping between us.
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"Just offering my congratulations," Dante chuckled, raising a glass of champagne. "Though it surprises me you'd marry the son of the man who ordered your mother's execution."
The room went dead silent. I stiffened, looking at Antonio. For a fraction of a second, his eyes flickered with a shadow of guilt before he regained his composure.