*Layla*
The baby shower was in full swing, the backyard filled with laughter and excited chatter. I was in the middle of opening gifts when I noticed a familiar face approaching.
"Anton?" I gasped, surprised to see him after so long.
He smiled, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "Hello, Layla. It's been a while."
As he handed me a beautifully wrapped package, I realized just how long it had been since I'd last seen him. "Where have you been?" I asked, genuinely curious.
Anton's expression turned serious. "Your mother put me in charge of blending Marco's organization with the Siracusa Syndicate. It's been...challenging."
I nodded, unsure how to respond. The world of syndicates and organizations still felt foreign to me.
"Open it," Anton urged, gesturing to the gift.
Inside, I found two delicate silver bracelets, each engraved with intricate patterns. "ID bracelets," Anton explained. "For the boys. They're beautiful and...protective."