Page 1 of Dark Prince

Chapter 1

Maura

“You're quite the vision tonight. A real shame your father isn't here to see this.” The man says. His gaze lingering on my neckline for an uncomfortably long time.

I’m confused by his choice of words.

“To see what, exactly?”

As he walks away, he throws a cryptic comment over his shoulder. “Enjoy the big evening, Maura. It'll be one to remember.” Sean O’Donnell is a low level mob boss closely tied with the Irish underworld.

The world I was born into.

His strange words hang in the air, heavy with an unspoken meaning that sends a shiver down my spine.

As I stand in the center of the grand ballroom, the emerald green of my gown in stark contrast to the sea of dark suits. The dress—though stunning with its fitted bodice and flowing skirt—feels like a costume in this world of shadows, sinister glares, and hushed threats.

The silk clings to my curves, a bold choice my stepmother insisted upon, saying it was time I looked the part of Irish mafia royalty—whatever that means.

The grandeur of the ballroom is overwhelming, with high ceilings adorned with elaborate chandeliers that cast a soft, golden glow over the crowd. Mob bosses and their entourages move through the space, their conversations a low hum beneath the gentle sounds coming from the string quartet playing in the corner.

The air is thick with the scent of expensive cologne and the subtle hint of danger that always seems to accompany gatherings like this. I stand near a tall, arched window, admiring the night sky, wondering what is beyond. I take a small sip from the crystal flute in my hand, the champagne cool and crisp on my tongue. I can't help but feel out of place despite the elegance of my gown and the way it complements the grandeur around me.

As I look about, I realize my stepmother never actually told me why this party is being held. There's usually a reason for these gatherings: a celebration, an announcement, a ceremony. But no reason for tonight’s festivities was given.

What's more unsettling is the way people keep staring.

Not the usual looks I've grown accustomed to, those lingering, often lecherous stares from men who see me as nothing more than a potential trophy. No, these looks are different—curious, speculative, almost wary.

As if they know something I don't.

It sets my nerves on edge.

I'm about to take another sip of my champagne when I spot my stepmother. She moves through the crowd with a grace that belies her true nature, her blonde hair styled perfectly, her blue eyes scanning the room like a predator assessing its territory. She's dressed in a perfectly tailored evening gown with a low cut neckline. The fabric is a deep navy that contrasts sharply with her fair skin. Her jewelry—always expensive yet understated—catches the light as she moves. There's a warm, almost charming smile on her lips, but her eyes remain cold and calculating.

As she approaches me, her smile widens.

Clearly forced.

“Maura, darling, you look lovely tonight,” she says, her voice dripping with a sweetness that I've learned to distrust.

I nod politely. “Thank you, Sharon. That’s very kind. I was just wondering what the occasion is for tonight's gathering?”

“Sharon…,” she says, clicking her tongue and shaking her head. “How many times do I have to remind you to call me mom?”

It takes all my self-control not to roll my eyes.

She’s not my mother.

The woman doesn’t have a maternal bone in her body.

“About the party, can you please clue me in?” I say changing the subject.

“Oh, you'll find out soon enough,” she replies cryptically, her gaze sweeping over the room before settling back on me. “Just enjoy the gathering, Maura. After all, it's not every day we have such a... special event.”

I narrow my eyes at Sharon's response. The patience for such games has long since left me. “I don't appreciate the mystery, Sharon,” I say, my voice firm.

Sharon's smile falters slightly, but she quickly regains her composure. Her eyes gleam with a hint of triumph as she leans in closer. “Very well, Maura. I suppose now’s as good a time as any for you to find out. The reason for tonight's celebration is quite simple—you're getting married.”

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