The Mafia & The Billionaire

Serene

Enzo and Princess were preparing for my grandparents’ transfer to Ling City. We can’t just leave any time we want since we have things to settle first. My visit to Portico was to introduce my husband to my oldies, but it turned out differently because of the incident we encountered along the way.

The people of Portico, especially those who hold government seats, might think that we will be leaving for good. But that’s not the case because I will still watch the region through Hamilton. I just can’t compromise my grandparent’s safety, especially when I’m back in the city.

“Boss, are we going to town?” asked Hamilton.

“Yes, I need to check on something and meet someone from the government.”

“The governor?” he asked, and I nodded. “I’ll prepare the car and some men,” he said, leaving the mansion. He knows what to do-everyone in the mansion does. I don’t need to tell them or give them detailed instructions about our usual transactions.

“Honey.” I turned and saw Alex looking at me, “You’re leaving?” he asked, and I nodded. “I want to come, too.”

“What? No!”

“Why not?”

“I’m going to town, and I didn’t want them to see you either.”

“Why?”

“For safety reasons.”

“You know that I can take care of myself.”

“And you know that I can, too.”

“Please, honey..” he insisted. As much as possible, I didn’t want him to be seen with me. I’m sure our enemies are lurking around, waiting for a perfect opportunity to get back to me and my family. They will not think twice about using Alex just to get to me.

“Please, Alex. I didn’t want any hindrance when things turned differently.”

“I won’t, I promise.” He’s persistent, but I will not let him win this time.

“No. Enzo and Princess will be here in an hour, so wait for them.” I replied and turned my back to him. I don’t want to argue with him anymore because I know that, in the end, I might give in. He controls me, and even if I didn’t like that, I still couldn’t help it.

Hamilton was already by the car, his face a mask of stoic determination, and a few of our trusted men stood ready, their eyes sharp and alert. I was still trying to shake off the remnants of a restless night when Alex appeared at the door, his jaw set in that stubborn way I knew all too well.

“You’re not going without me,” he stated flatly, crossing his arms. His gaze was unwavering, daring me to argue.

“Alex, you know it’s risky; I already explained it to you.” I sighed, already feeling the weight of another battle brewing.

“I don’t care,” he replied, stepping closer. “I’m coming. End of discussion.”Please check at N/ôvel(D)rama.Org.

I wanted to protest, to tell him that his place was here, ensuring the safety of my grandparents, but the look in his eyes stopped me. There was no changing his mind. I nodded reluctantly, signaling the others to make room for him in the car.

As we drove into town, I couldn’t shake the unease curling in my stomach. The governor was expecting us, and I needed to convince him that our plan would benefit everyone despite the looming threats.

We pulled up to the governor’s office, a grand, imposing building that always made me feel slightly out of place because I knew what kind of person I was. I was far from flawless and had claimed the lives of numerous politicians and wealthy individuals. Hamilton held the door open for me, and I stepped inside, the familiar smell of polished wood and old books filling the air. Alex and the others followed closely behind, their presence a silent assurance.

The governor, a tall man with a commanding presence and a sharp gaze, stood as we entered. He offered a firm handshake and gestured for us to sit. His office was filled with mementos from his years in service, a testament to his commitment to our region.

“Governor Reinhart,” I began, sitting down and meeting his eyes with resolve. “Thank you for seeing us on such short notice.”

“Of course, Serene,” he replied, his voice warm but tinged with concern. “I understand there have been some complications.”

“Indeed.” Before continuing, I nodded, glancing at Hamilton for support.

“And you have someone with you,” he said, looking at Alex.

“I’m Alex McGregor, Serene’s husband.” I wanted to roll my eyes at him, but I had to hold it. I saw a shock in the governor’s eyes, making me think he had recognized him.

“Alexander McGregor?” he asked, trying to confirm that he was talking to the same person. My husband nodded, smiling. “Oh, I’m sorry. I remember you coming here months ago for a possible investment, right?”

“Yes, I did.”

“And what happened?”

“Many businessmen didn’t like to collaborate with me.”

“Oh, that’s sad to hear.”

“Don’t worry, I’m persistent and still won.”

“Then who had partnered with you?” asked the governor. Regarding business, the government of Portico wants a local to have a share in every company that will be put up. We wanted to control the capitalist. Everyone in the region will benefit from all those companies and not the capitalists alone.

“Don’t worry, governor, because I made the transaction legally,” Alex replied, so I looked at him with a creased forehead. I believed him, but I couldn’t believe that Patt didn’t include Alex’s business here in Portico when he sent me his report.

“I’m glad you do,” Governor Reinhart said, relieved, before looking at me. “Congratulations on your wedding, Serene.”

“It was flashed, so I didn’t invite anyone. Even my grandparents.”

“I see, so what brings you here?”

“My family is facing a serious threat, and we need to take immediate action to ensure their safety. I intend to move my grandparents to Ling City, where they will be out of harm’s way.”

The governor raised an eyebrow. “Ling City? That’s quite a distance. Are you certain it’s necessary?”

“Absolutely,” I said firmly. “The situation is more dangerous than we initially thought. We can’t afford to take any chances. But I want to assure you that our commitment to this region remains unwavering. My family has led here for generations, and I intend to uphold that legacy no matter where we reside.”

Governor Reinhart leaned back in his chair, considering my words. “And you, Serene? Will you stay here to manage affairs?”

I nodded. “Yes. I’ll be overseeing everything from here. Hamilton will act as my liaison. He’s fully capable and will update you on everything you need to know.”

The governor glanced at Hamilton, who gave a brief, respectful nod. “Very well,” he said finally, turning back to me. “I trust your judgment, Serene. But remember that this region will look to you for leadership, especially in these trying times.”

“I understand, Governor,” I replied. “I won’t let the region down. My family’s legacy is too important to me.”

Reinhart smiled faintly. “I believe you. Just keep us informed, and if you need any assistance, don’t hesitate to ask.”

“Thank you,” I said, feeling relief wash over me. “We’ll be in touch.”

As we left the governor’s office, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of determination. The road ahead was fraught with danger, but I had a plan and the support of those who mattered most. As we drove home, I decided to stop by a cafe. My go-to place whenever I want to think about something.

“If anyone wants to have coffee, they can have some.” Hamilton nodded after I said that, and then I got out of the car, followed by Alex, and started walking my way to the coffee shop.

“Serene?” said someone on my right as I pushed the shop’s door.

“Juancho?” I asked, shocked, why he was here.