Page 24 of Lured By the Cartel

"Do you remember? No lies between us," I cautioned, loosening my grip and giving him room to breathe, to think clearly. "Not after..."

"Not after what?" He questioned, his vulnerability stripped raw, utterly exposed. Just like our first meeting—vulnerable, innocent, even naïve. And he was mine then, just as he was now.

"After I fully claimed you," I concluded gruffly, my voice deepening, reverberating within the confines of the kitchen. Claiming, possession, ownership—terms alien to most men. Yet they were natural, innate, and inevitable when confronting a true mate. An irrefutable reality when confronted with destiny.

His breath audibly hitched, surprise widening his dark irises before melting into something warmer, softer, and more tender. Acceptance or relief, maybe? Either way, there was a visible, tangible, undeniable shift. Something that changed the course of the events unfolding between us, altering the trajectory.

"We need to talk about this properly," I declared, abruptly turning away, breaking the connection that held us captive moments before. Now was neither the time nor the place for intimate conversations, heartfelt confessions, or emotional proclamations. Not while tension was mounting elsewhere, danger was lingering nearby, and enemies were closing in. This was for later. After addressing other immediate concerns requiring urgent attention.

Despite this, unbeknownst to the others, the priority rested solely on my shoulders, its burden weighing heavily on my chest. Because no matter what happened next, who challenged my leadership, or what threats loomed... nothing was more important than securing safety, stability, and peace for the omega carrying my child. Nothing mattered more than ensuring the well-being, happiness, and security of the man I loved.

Before addressing the concerns plaguing my mind, duty called. My subordinates gathered downstairs, awaiting theirorders. There was no room for delay or indecision here. It was time to wear their public mask, to perfect their expected roles.

Faces turned towards me after I reached the first floor, anticipation hanging thick among the silent figures huddled together. They knew trouble was brewing, and sensed instability simmering beneath my calm exterior. They saw the cracks, the flaws, the weaknesses. All visible under their scrutiny.

"Report," I demanded, cutting through the tension, swiftly commanding respect.

My subordinates filed forward one by one, detailing recent incidents, unexpected issues, and simmering problems that had neared a breaking point. They all spoke candidly, showing their loyalty and vested faith in me.

Throughout the presentation, unease grew and concerns escalated. We were facing more challenges lately, threats were multiplying, and enemies were edging closer. How much longer could we maintain control, hold onto power, and defend our territory? Questions and doubts weighed heavily on our already burdened minds.

Despite the mounting pressure, uncertainty, and doubt... no one wavered or faltered. Instead, their resolve hardened, their deportments stiffened, and their chins were defiantly uplifted.

Once the final report finished, a heavy, awkward silence fell. The atmosphere was tense with expectation. The waiting game was a frequent test of patience and limit-pushing in times like these.

"So," I finally said, deliberately breaking the silence. "What do you propose?"

Eyes shifted to me, all focused on the single figure standing tall among them. Me, their leader.

Then, as silence stretched taut, tension coiling tightly around us, a lone figure stepped forward boldly, breaking ranks. My brow furrowed, curiosity piqued sharply amidst theconfusion swirling within my mind. Who dared speak right now without permission? Who?

"We've heard enough. The truth is, despite everything you've done for us, is that you've been too lenient recently, Marco,"he announced, voice echoing throughout the grand hall. Gasps echoed softly around us, shock rippling amongst those present. Traitorous bastard. Using my name without the appropriate title, attempting to undermine my status like this...

I studied him with narrowed eyes, taking in every detail. Average height, lean build, sharp features framed by short dark hair. Unremarkable at first glance; yet, looks could deceive easily enough. Appearances meant little sometimes.

"And you are?"I inquired, feigning ignorance despite beginning to remember who he was. His identity didn't matter at the moment; only his intentions did.

He smirked, sensing victory approaching. Foolish move, really. Underestimating opponents always led straight down to disappointment.

"I am the one who sees clearly what needs changing,"he replied, spreading his arms wide. Our audience murmured approval, some even nodding eagerly. Damn fools. They were so blind.

"Changing, huh?"I echoed, tapping my chin as if deep in thought. Meanwhile, anger churned within me, demanding release. But not now. Not until the time was right.

"Yes!"He exclaimed, believing himself victorious already. Idiot. Dumbasses like him always failed to recognize the strength hidden beneath calm facades.

"Very well then,"I agreed, dropping a hand casually beside my side. Nonchalance perfected, practiced thoroughly over the years. Yet, inside, a storm raged, threatening eruption soon.

His brows furrowed, surprise flickering briefly before comprehension dawned. Too late, though. Now, he was going to face the consequences of his actions.

In a flash, I moved, striking faster than anyone anticipated. Hand wrapped firmly around his throat, lifting him effortlessly off the ground. Struggle barely registered amidst the shock gripping him from head to toe. His pathetic attempt at inciting a rebellion was already fizzling out.

"What-"

"No words needed,"I growled low, leaning close, allowing heat radiating off me to scorch his face. Fear flashed briefly before acceptance replaced it, realization dawning slowly yet undeniably. Bingo, not that it was much of an achievement. I just hated being forced into displaying dominance in such a way.

"But..."he started, grasping at last straws. Weak grasp, slipping swiftly between his fingers. Too late anyway.

"No 'buts',"I snapped, tightening my grip slightly. Just enough to cut off the air supply steadily, leaving no room for protests.

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