Page 121 of Ruthless Mafia Boss 3: Vino and Claire

We torched her little house—couldn’t leave any evidence behind.

“Chop her up and sink her body parts to the bottom of the Hudson,” I told Lativia.

“Got it, boss.”

The war was officially over.

CLAIRE

“Claire!” Glacier’s voice echoed down the hallway.

“I’m in the studio!” I called back.

Inside, Porsha, Roleta, Meela, and I were putting the final touches on my wedding dress. A breathtaking work that was distinctly Claire Ainsley. I even entertained the idea of changing my designer name to Claire Manning, but in the end, I left it as is. After all, it was a brand. My name now graced garments across the globe, all thanks to my fiancé who was also my benefactor.

“Claire, your studio is amazing,” came a familiar voice from behind.

Tears threatened to spill the moment I heard it. I turned, smiling. “Gia,” I choked, “before I fall apart, I want you to meet my team.”

She laughed through her own emotion, embracing each of the women warmly and gushing over the gown like only Gia could. After a few moments, I tugged her hand and led her across the hall into my private office.

I started pacing, fanning my face, but it was no use. The tears came anyway—fast, hard, unstoppable.

“You saved my life,” I whispered, voice cracking.

Gia didn’t hesitate. She wrapped her arms around my neck and pulled me close. We held each other, both crying into the other’s shoulder.

“I’m just grateful I was in a position to help,” she whispered.

We stood there, holding on, letting the moment ground us.

Pulling back, I took in her glowing face. “You look amazing.”

“Thank you.” She blushed, her curly brown hair cascading over her petite shoulders. Her gray eyes sparkled, and her green sundress hugged her figure perfectly, ending just above the knee.

Gazing at the ring on her finger, I asked, “You’re married?”

“Yes,” she confirmed.

I missed my friend’s wedding. Another memory Ivan stole from me because I couldn’t remain in contact with my family and friends.

“Congratulations,” I smiled. “How did you meet?”

“Thanks. After Berkley, I transferred to Penn State. My mother wanted me closer to my cousins, and I wanted to be near you—in case Ivan ever got past the security I set up to protect you and your family.”

My hand flew to my mouth at her confession.

Tears once again trickled down my face. “I’m so sorry I put you through all of that.”

She firmly held my hands and met my gaze. “Never apologize for being shielded from a monster.”

We sat together on the powder-blue sofa, hearts slowly healing with every word.

“I thought you knew he was Bratva,” Gia remarked.

I shook my head. “No, he kept that part of his life hidden from me until it was impossible to do so.”

I recounted everything that had happened with Ivan and Vino.

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