Chapter 15 - THE FINAL ULTIMATUM
The execution of Marcus sent a shockwave through the city's criminal underworld.
It proved that Victor Romano was still completely ruthless, but it also proved something much more dangerous.
Lena was not just a pretty trophy; she was a brilliant, highly capable partner running the empire by his side.
The Petrov family, however, was still a massive threat hanging over their heads.
With Ivan dead, Clara's father, old man Vladimir Petrov, officially declared a blood feud against the Romano syndicate.
Vladimir sent a messenger to the estate with a black envelope sealed in red wax.
Victor opened it in the kitchen while Lena poured them both black coffee.
"It is an invitation to a parley," Victor said, tossing the heavy card onto the marble island.
"Vladimir wants to meet at the neutral ground of the Continental Club tonight."
"Is it a trap?" Lena asked, handing him a steaming mug.
"Everything in this life is a trap, my love," Victor sighed, rubbing his tired eyes.
"But if I refuse to show up, the other families will see it as a sign of weakness, and we will lose the city."
"Then we will go together," Lena stated firmly, leaving no room for argument.
"Absolutely not," Victor snapped, slamming his hand down on the counter.
"I will not put you in the same room as a grieving father who wants to mount your head on a spike."
Lena walked around the counter and backed Victor against the edge of the sink.
She grabbed the lapels of his suit, pulling him down so she could look directly into his fierce eyes.
"You promised me we were partners, Victor."
"I am the one who took his daughter's place, and I am the one who helped kill his son."
"If we are going to end this war, we are going to look that old monster in the eye together."
Victor stared at her for a long moment, completely mesmerized by her fiery defiance.
He finally surrendered with a heavy sigh, resting his forehead against hers.
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"Wear something bulletproof under your dress," Victor finally conceded.
"Because tonight, one of our empires is going to burn to the ground."
