Chapter 47:Trials

Elena had surrendered to him.

Not just in body—but in everything.

She had fought, clawed, and resisted until there was nothing left.

And now, she stood at his side, not as his captive—but as his queen.

But power came at a cost.

And their enemies had been waiting.

One Week Later

The De Luca estate was no longer hers alone.

The moment she gave in, the moment she whispered I'm yours, Alessio had wasted no time in taking what belonged to him.

He moved his men into the estate. He merged their worlds, their power, their rule.

It was no longer the De Lucas against the Valentis.

It was Alessio and Elena against everyone.

And the world had taken notice.

Because now—they were the greatest threat of all.

Elena watched from the grand balcony as their men trained below, weapons drawn, voices sharp.

It should have made her feel stronger.

But something about it made her stomach twist.

Something was wrong.

Then—a voice.

"You feel it, don't you?"

Alessio.

She turned to face him, but he was already behind her, always knowing.

She didn't answer.

Because yes.

She did.

Alessio's hands slid around her waist, his grip firm. "It won't be long now."

She swallowed. "You think they'll come for us?"

He let out a dark chuckle. "They already have."

Elena stiffened. "What do you mean?"

Alessio's jaw tensed. "They sent a message."

He handed her a small, unmarked envelope.

Her fingers shook as she tore it open, revealing a single sheet of paper.

Three words.

GIVE HIM UP.

Her stomach dropped. "They mean you."

Alessio smirked. Unbothered. Unshaken.

"Of course they do." He turned her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. "And you already know what you're going to tell them, don't you?"

She did.

She had given herself to him completely.

There was no choice to make.

Her fingers curled around the paper, crushing it. "I'll tell them to burn in hell."

Something dark flickered in his eyes. Pride. Possession. Lust.

Then, without warning, the first gunshot rang out.

And the war truly began.