Page 8 of Masked Mafia's Runaway Bride

As Enzo left, I sat back down, letting out a slow breath. If my father was alive, that changed everything. But it also meant I had more at stake than ever before. Don Carlos wasn’t just some rival; he was a threat to everything I held dear.

And as I looked out the window, the city lights twinkling in the distance, one thought anchored me. I would get back everything Don Carlos had taken, every last cent and drop of power. My father, my family’s wealth—all of it. I’d infiltrate Don Carlos’s empire if that’s what it took.

For Alex, for my father, for every promise I had yet to keep.

*****

Stepping off the plane, the noise of New York City greeted me like an old friend. The sound of honking cars and the chatter of busy streets—something about it all made me feel grounded and alive. I had spent too long hidden away, building my empire in silence, always watching but never seen. But now? Now, it was time to show the world that Mirella Gallo was back, stronger than ever.

I glanced at Enzo, who gave me a knowing look. “The gala starts in an hour. Perfect timing,” he smirked. “Should I prepare a team?”

I grinned, already imagining the scene. “Oh, yes. Make sure I’m flawless. If I’m coming out of the shadows, I want the whole city to know.”

An hour later, I was in front of a mirror, admiring the transformation. My gown hugged every curve—a rich midnight blue with a shimmer that seemed to dance under the lights. The neckline sunk daringly, and the fabric flowed down to the floor like liquid. My hair was swept back, sleek and elegant, leaving nothing to distract from the defiant fire in my eyes.

The makeup artists fussed over the last details—dark lipstick, a touch of silver on the eyelids, and a smoky gaze that dared anyone to look away. This wasn’t just a dress or makeup; it was armor, and every inch of it was meant to turn heads and make them whisper.

Tonight, the queen was back.

****

The gala was in full swing by the time I arrived. I felt every gaze on me as I stepped inside. Conversations paused, and glasseshalted mid-air. All eyes were on me. It was a delicious kind of power. I watched them as they watched me, enjoying the shock and murmurs.

I made my way through the crowd. I could feel them parting like water. And then, at the far end of the room, I saw him. Don Carlos himself was standing tall in his expensive suit, holding a glass of something dark. His expression shifted from surprise to a twisted smirk as he took in the sight of me.

I could practically hear his thoughts.Well, well. Look who finally crawled out of her hiding place.

Without a word, he motioned for me to come closer. I approached him, my steps slow and deliberate. He didn’t deserve the satisfaction of seeing me rush.

“So,” he sneered, his voice laced with a mocking edge, “My little runaway bride finally decided to return.”

I met his gaze without flinching. “I’m here to do business, Don Carlos. There’s no need for trouble.”

He laughed, the sound cutting through the room. “Business? What do you know about business, Mirella?” His tone was so patronizing that I almost rolled my eyes right then and there. Instead, I kept my expression calm and unruffled.

“I know enough,” I replied coolly, keeping my voice steady. “I’m not here to dredge up the past or to settle old scores.”

Carlos chuckled, sipping his drink with exaggerated ease. “Bold of you to show your face, though. After all, you did run off with some man on our wedding day.”

“Was that supposed to be an insult?” I raised an eyebrow. “I was young, Don Carlos. Naïve. I thought true love could win and that life was fair.”

He smirked. “And now? Has life taught you anything useful?”

I looked away, pretending a bitterness I didn’t feel. “It taught me that love is trash. A fairy tale meant to make fools of us all. Now, I’m here for only one thing—what my father left for me.”

A flicker of surprise crossed his face, quickly replaced by suspicion. He leaned closer, his voice low. “And why should I believe that’s all you’re after?”

I met his eyes, unwavering. “Because I have nothing else left, Don Carlos. You took my family. All I want is what’s mine. I don’t need or want your pity. Or your lies.”

He looked at me for a long, tense moment before laughing again. “The audacity. Showing up here like you’re some grieving daughter after running off like you did. You really think I’d hand over anything without a price?”

I forced myself to stay calm, my voice a carefully crafted whisper of indifference. “Name it.”

Carlos leaned back, smug as ever. “It’s simple. You marry me.”

The words hit me like ice water, but I let only the barest hint of disgust flash in my eyes.Marry him?It was almost funny, really. The idea was repulsive, but it was exactly what I’d hoped he’d propose. Marriage would put me right where I needed to be. In his home. In his business. And, eventually, in control.

“Marry you?” I scoffed, pretending to mull it over. “Don Carlos, be reasonable. That would be a last resort.”

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