Page 222 of Sinful Pleasure

He narrowed his eyes.

“And what does your boyfriend think of all this?”

“He is willing to consider mercy after you serve your punishment’’

He let out a laugh.

“Do I have to expect a bullet in the leg?”

He tried to joke, but it fell flat—an awful attempt at humor. The memory of my father caused pain to Maddox still haunts me.

“Maybe,” I answered honestly.

That’s something Maddox will have to decide.

He had through so much because of my father, and if he wants redemption, he had to endure the same.Mikael appeared to be considering my proposal, his expression rather surprised.

“Who will be head of my family if I agree? A King, or you?”

“I’ll take your place permanently,” I said. “And after me, the position will be rightfully inherited by your grandchild, who will be a King, whether you like it or not. His father is a King, and so will our child.”

I was sure that wasn’t something my father wanted to hear, but it’s non- negotiable. My child, no matter the gender, would be heir to both the King and Romano families.

A power that belongs to them— by right.

“And what am I supposed to do?”

“Live a normal life. Spend time with your daughter and grandchild,” my voice softened with hope. “Be a part of our family.”

I wanted this.

I wanted to give Mikael a chance.I wanted him to be part of my future, but only if he desires it as much as I do. I had given him a choice, but the decision remains his.

His eyes narrowed as he rested his head against the wall, a tired smile creeping across his old face. It felt as if he didn’t want to fight me—he neither had the strength nor the will to.

It felt like an eternity passed before he finally spoke again.

“I accept your offer, my daughter.”

The words escaped his mouth like a dream coming true. I had to blinkseveral times and ask him to repeat them, just to make sure I wasn’t imagining it.

“You know there’s no going back after this, right?” I reminded him. “If you break my trust, you’ll die this time.”

“You learned from the best,” he nodded, grinning at me.

“You know the punishment won’t be easy, right?”

Mikael’s throaty laugh filled the room, his face showing no hint of fear.

“I expect nothing less from Maddox King,” he nodded as if he was looking forward to it.

“Let him show me his worst if it means redeeming myselffor the sins I’ve committed against you.”

And for the first time, looking at Mikael, I saw my father. A person who was ready to fight for me, to change, to earn a place in my future.

But first, he had to face the hell he created.

That’s the price you pay when you go against a King.

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