Chapter 1 Prologue

One Night, A Lifetime Secret

The rain pounded against the glass windows of the luxury suite. Inside, under the dim glow of the chandelier, Aria Blake sat nervously at the edge of the king-sized bed, her hands trembling as she clutched her purse. She never thought a desperate night would lead her here-to the heart of the Valentini Mafia Empire.

"You're late," a deep, cold voice rumbled.

She looked up, her breath catching as Lorenzo Valentini stepped out of the shadows. Tall, broad-shouldered, his icy blue eyes pinned her in place like a predator eyeing his prey. The infamous Mafia Prince, known for his ruthlessness and charm, yet tonight, his expression was unreadable.

I'm here to pay off my brother's debt," she stammered.

Lorenzo's lips curved into a smirk that didn't reach his eyes. "I don't deal with money when it comes to betrayal. But I might consider... other forms of payment."

Aria's stomach twisted. She knew exactly what that meant. Yet, for her family, she was ready to sacrifice everything.

That night, innocence met darkness.

But neither of them knew that their fleeting encounter would create a bond that not even death could sever.

The Mafia Prince's Hidden Baby