Chapter 8 - Declaration of War
Lorenzo summoned his top lieutenants to the war room immediately.
The massive mahogany table was covered in maps and weapons.
"Valeria Conti just signed her own death warrant," Lorenzo declared, his voice pure ice.
Marco, his right-hand man, cleared his throat.
"Boss, the Conti family is heavily allied with Don Marchesi," Marco warned.
"If we strike Valeria, we go to war with half of Rome."
Lorenzo slammed his fist on the table, splintering the wood.
"I don't care if I have to burn the entire country to ashes!" he roared.
"No one touches Elena, and no one touches that little girl."
He turned to the men, his commanding presence demanding absolute loyalty.
"Gather the men, arm the armories, and send a message to the old Moretti loyalists."
"Tell them the true heir has returned, and she is under my protection."
Elena stood in the doorway, watching the man she was falling in love with prepare for war.
She stepped into the room, holding the gold signet ring.
"I will not hide in a corner while you fight for my family," she said bravely.
Lorenzo looked at her, a fierce surge of pride swelling in his chest.
May you like
He took the ring and slipped it onto her finger.
"Then we fight together," he promised.
