The Confrontation.
The morning of the party was cold. Dante didn't ask Elara if she wanted to go. He simply had a box delivered to her room containing a dress the color of spilled wine and diamonds that cost more than a house.
When she walked down the stairs he was waiting for her in a black suit that made him look like a shadow. He didn't say she looked beautiful. He just gripped her waist so tight it bruised and led her to the car.
The estate of his father was a palace built on blood. As they walked through the gold-leafed doors every head turned. The music seemed to stumble. The underworld royalty of the city watched as the Butcher of the Syndicate walked in with a girl who looked like an angel caught in a storm.
Dante's father stood at the end of the hall. He was fifty-five today and he looked like a king who had never known a day of guilt. His stepmother stood beside him dripping in pearls and wearing a fake smile that made Dante's blood boil.
Dante didn't stop until he was standing right in front of them. He didn't offer a hand to shake. He kept his arm firmly around Elara pulling her flush against his side.
Happy birthday old man Dante said. His voice was like a blade sliding out of a sheath. I brought you a gift.
His father looked at Elara then at Dante. He laughed a dry and hollow sound. You brought a girl to a war zone Dante. You always were too soft for this life. Just like your mother.
Dante's grip on Elara tightened. The air in the room turned to ice. He leaned in until he was inches from his fathers face.
My mother died because she was alone Dante whispered so only they could hear. I am not alone. I have everything you ever wanted and I have the one thing you can never break.
He looked at his stepmother and his smile was terrifying. I hope you enjoyed the cake. It will be the last meal you eat in this house.
Before his father could respond the lights in the ballroom flickered and died. Outside the sound of tires screeching and muffled gunshots broke the silence of the night. Mark and the rest of Dante's men were moving in.
Dante looked down at Elara. Her eyes were wide with terror but he didn't let go. He leaned down and kissed her hard in front of everyone.
Don't look away Elara he said against her lips. I want you to see how I burn his world for what he did to mine.