Page 100 of His Bride

“Giana,” he says, leaning back in his seat. “Relax. We’re family. What’s on your mind?”

We’re family—words that tug at my heartstrings.

“Caelian made my father sign everything to me. All the businesses, houses, and properties.”

“He told me. Your dad should be grateful you’re willing to still care for him with a small monthly allowance.”

“He’s still my family.”

Alexius nods. “I respect that.”

I open my bag and pull out the legal document I had drawn up, witnessed, and signed. “It’s ironclad. And it’s all in your name. Businesses and properties, apart from a home for Cristiano, and enough money for him and me to live on. But the rest? Yours.”

He takes it and goes through it.

“Well, fuck. I see why Aurelio wanted your father’s empire so badly. He has a very important port under his control, among others.” He meets my eye. “This could make you and your brother a power in your own right.”

“I don’t want it.”

“And your brother?”

“I don’t want him pushed into this life. It’s all yours.”

“Are you sure?”

I nod. “Just one proviso.”

“I’m listening.”

“If Cristiano chooses to be involved in this…life one day, can I count on the Dark Sovereign to take him in? I don’t expect any special treatment. He’ll need to earn his way if this is the path he wants. But I just ask that you teach him your ways, with your guidance.”

“Consider it done.”

I exhale my relief, knowing the Del Rossa family will take care of my brother if this is the life he wants. I hope it won’t be, but I also know it’s in his blood, as it is in mine. We can try to run from it, but we can’t change it. It’s engraved into us.

Alexius continues reading through the papers then looks at me. “I’m going to ask you again, are you sure?”

“Absolutely.”

He nods. “My father taught me never to look a gift horse in the mouth. It’s a deal.” He gets up and rounds the table, and I stand to shake his hand, but instead, he hugs me. “We’re happy to have you as part of the family,” he says, and my eyes blur with tears.

Everyone has been so accepting of me since the whole ordeal ended. Mira’s back, Leandra and the twins. But there’s something profoundly deep—an honor, almost—knowing that Alexius has accepted me, welcomed me.

“I leave my husband alone for ten minutes, and I find another woman in his arms.” Leandra strolls in with a teasing smile on her face.

Alexius pulls back, his face lighting up at the sight of his wife. “I was just sealing the deal,” he says with a roguish wink, throwing an arm around her waist as she approaches.

“You promised you’ll take it easy for at least a few months.”

“I am. Look at me. I’m not wearing a suit.”

“Only you, Alexius, would consider not wearing a suit as 'taking it easy.' You're still wheeling and dealing, aren't you?” she chides, but fondness blooms in her eyes.

“That’s if you call a conversation with my sister-in-law wheeling and dealing.”

My heart swells with warmth. I can’t explain it, the pride and joy that floods me when he refers to me as his sister-in-law. I am truly a part of this family now, and it’s worth more than I ever thought.

“Well, if you’ll excuse me,” I stroll to the door, “Caelian mentioned something about a quick trip.”

---