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CHAPTER 1
BREAKING FREE
The pulsating music and loud laughter enveloped me as I walked through the smoke-filled casino floor. But I felt detached, like I was watching it all happen to someone else. Someone who actually belonged in this world.
Most kids grew up playing with dolls or riding bikes. But not me. I'm Natalia Moretti, the only daughter of the ruthless Moretti crime family. I was born into mafia royalty, whether I liked it or not.As I went deeper into the jungle of slot machines and card tables, I couldn't help but think about how bizarre my life was. On one hand, I'm just Natalia, trying to figure out life. On the other the heir to a criminal empire, dealing with a ton of expectations and responsibilities that come with the famous last name.
"Come on, sis! Come join me," my brother Enzo called out from the roulette table. He was surrounded by his men and scantily-clad women hanging on his every word.
I pasted on a smile and made my way over, trying to look more enthusiastic than I felt. Enzo threw an arm around my shoulder, reeking of whiskey and cigars.
"Place your bets!" the dealer shouted.
As the wheel spun, blurred colors whirling, I couldn't stop thinking about how trapped I felt. How much I yearned to escape this gilded cage I'd been born into. To have a simple, normal life away from the mafia.
Everyone around me were lost into their games, not having a clue about the wild power plays and secret deals happening underneath the shiny surface of this place. To them, the casino was just a good time, a quick escape from their usual grind. But for me, it was a reminder that I was locked into a legacy thathad already decided my future long before I even knew what that meant.
I was lost in my thoughts, not paying attention to where I was going… and them I bumped right into him.
"Sorry about that," he uttered politely, his voice flowing with a captivating smoothness, yet underscored by a subtle air of grace.
When he turned around, I found myself staring into intense, dark blue eyes.
But it wasn't just his eyes that had me intrigued; it was his rugged good looks. I'm talking about a chiseled jawline with just the right amount of stubble that gave him this effortlessly calm vibe. His dark hair, slightly tousled, added to his whole charming package.
He was no ordinary guy. I could sense it immediately, like recognizing like. He had an air about him, this aura of confidence mixed with a hint of mystery, and it made me want to know more. This man moved with a powerful confidence that hinted there was something more than what it seemed.
Our gazes locked, and in those few heated seconds, I saw a thrilling new path unfolding. A way to finally break free. At least for tonight
"Natalia! Get over here!" Enzo yelled.
Fuck.
"I’m coming!" I replied annoyed.
I guess my brother is not gonna make it easy for me. But after all, I love a good challenge.
I turned reluctantly back toward the roulette wheel. But I could still feel the mysterious stranger's eyes tracking me as I disappeared into the crowd.
Little did I know, that brief, forbidden encounter was about to present an opportunity I had yearned for my entire life - a chance to escape the gilded cage that I had grown to despise. I was tired of playing it safe. Ready to take my life into my own hands, no matter the consequences.
Returning to the high-stakes poker table where my brother, was deeply absorbed in the game, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of frustration. His protectiveness had always grated on my nerves, and tonight was no exception.
"Hey, Marco," I began hesitantly, trying to keep my voice light. "I just needed a bit of fresh air, you know?"
He glanced up from his cards, his dark eyes narrowing as he studied my face. "Natalia, you know better than to wander off on your own in a place like this. It's not safe."
I rolled my eyes, annoyed by his overbearing concern. "Come on, Enzo, I'm not a child anymore. I can take care of myself."
He sighed, his expression a mixture of worry and frustration. "Natalia, you may not be a kid, but this world can be ruthless. You're all I've got left, and I can't stand the thought of something happening to you. And let’s not fool each other, we know how easy it is for you to get into trouble."
I understood his concerns, he was right, in a way, but tonight was different. I had a lead, a chance to find out more about the enigmatic stranger who had captured my attention.
"Look, Marco, I promise I'll be careful. But I need some space to breathe, to figure things out for myself."
Enzo stared at me for a moment, his gaze unwavering.
"No," he replied, "You’re staying right here where I can watch you."
