Chapter 97

• Rosa’s POV
• The air was sharp with the morning chill as I stepped out of the mansion and into the waiting car. My father’s message had been clear—today was important, a negotiation that could strengthen our family’s alliances. It was rare for him to call on me for something this significant, but I knew better than to question his motives. In our world, trust wasn’t given lightly, and every move had a purpose.
• The driver didn’t make small talk, which suited me just fine. My mind was already preoccupied with the task ahead. The meeting was with the Russo syndicate, a group that had built its empire on loyalty and calculated risk. My father wanted an agreement that would mutually benefit both families—sharing resources, protection, and, most importantly, influence.