Chapter 10 - THE GALA OF SNAKES|
The Grand Ballroom at the harbor hotel was a glittering sea of black tuxedos, silk gowns, and hidden weapons.
Every major figure in the city's political and business sectors was present. They had all come to see Damon Cain—and the mysterious woman he had officially declared as his late wife's heir.
When the heavy oak doors opened, a hush fell over the room.
Damon walked in wearing a tailored black tuxedo, looking powerful and lethal. Beside him was Rosa, wearing an emerald-green silk dress that complemented her dark hair, her posture regal and calm. Behind them stood Lev and four heavily armed guards disguised in evening wear.
"Stay close to me," Damon whispered to Rosa as guests bowed their heads in respect. "These people smile with their teeth, but they bite with venom."
"I used to serve champagne at these galas," Rosa whispered back with a small, nervous smile. "It's strange standing on this side of the glass."
"You belong on this side," Damon replied firmly.
From across the room, Victor Valenti approached, holding two glasses of vintage champagne.
"Damon!" Victor called out smoothly, his fake smile sickeningly wide. "It has been too long, my friend. And this must be the lovely Rosa."
Damon instantly stepped half an inch in front of Rosa, his hand resting casually inside his jacket near his shoulder holster.
"Valenti," Damon said, his voice dropping into a razor-thin growl. "I didn't think you were on the guest list."
May you like
"I bought a table," Victor replied smoothly, offering one of the champagne glasses toward Rosa. "A toast to new family ties, yes? To peace in the city."
Rosa reached out her hand to take the glass, but Damon's arm shot out like a iron bar, stopping her wrist mid-air.
