Chapter 15 - The Ambush at the Gala
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Despite the looming threat, the mafia is governed by appearances. Weakness is an invitation to be slaughtered.
The annual East Coast Syndicate Gala was scheduled for that weekend in downtown Baltimore. It was a neutral-ground event where the bosses gathered to discuss territory and flash their wealth. If Victor didn't attend, it would confirm the rumors that he was hiding behind his walls, terrified of the Russians.
“I have to go,” Victor told Hannah as he strapped a shoulder holster over his tailored tuxedo shirt.
“I’m coming with you,” Hannah insisted, standing in the doorway of his dressing room. She wore a stunning, floor-length emerald gown he had bought for her.
“Absolutely not,” Victor snapped. “It is a viper’s nest. Sokolov might be there. You are staying here with Poppy.”
“If I stay here, it proves I am a weakness you have to hide,” Hannah argued fiercely, stepping toward him. “If I walk in on your arm, it proves I am your Queen, and you are not afraid of them.”
Victor stared at her, mesmerized by her courage. She was a maid a month ago. Now, she was ready to walk into a room full of murderers to defend his pride.
“You are terrifying,” Victor murmured, a proud smile touching his lips. “Fine. But you do not leave my side.”
They arrived at the grand hotel ballroom surrounded by a phalanx of armed guards. The moment Victor entered with a beautiful, unknown woman on his arm, the entire room fell silent.
The bosses watched them carefully. Victor projected absolute dominance, introducing her only as "Hannah," offering no explanations.
The night was proceeding smoothly until the clock struck midnight.
The heavy crystal chandeliers above the dance floor suddenly flickered and died. The ballroom plunged into total darkness.
“Get down!” Victor roared.
The deafening sound of automatic gunfire shattered the silence. Screams erupted as the massive floor-to-ceiling windows were blown out by tactical assault teams rappelling from the roof.
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The Russians hadn't come to talk. They had come for an execution.
Victor threw Hannah to the marble floor, covering her body entirely with his own as bullets chewed the dining tables to splinters all around them.
