Page 74 of Cruel Devotion

What bullshit have you decided to bring to this mountain?

Meanwhile, the heavy weight of responsibilities pressed down on me. Even in this magical realm, the burdens of leadership, the legacy of my family, and the pull of my heart battled for dominance.

Chen stepped forward and signaled the small orchestra.

The elegance of the Sanctum was shattered by the opening notes of my theme song—a tune that felt more like a cage than a celebration.

I groaned in annoyance.

I'm getting rid of this song too.

Shuffling sounded as everyone rose in their seats and lowered their heads.

I gripped Monique's hand more firmly and looked down at her. “Don't be mad at me.”

She blinked. “Is that how you say sorry?”

“I don't regret what I did to Rowe Street Mob but I do regret upsettingyou.”

“That's not enough, Lei.” She moved her view forward. “But we can discuss all of that later. For now, let's have a nice night.”

Out of nowhere, Chen spoke, “I concur with Monique.”

I scowled his way.

“Let us go.” Chen gestured for me to take the lead.

Can I just get one fucking minute with her?

I guided Monique forward.

As we walked, she whispered. “I had no idea this place existed on this mountain. How is it even possible?”

“My father claimed that God made it for us.”

She grinned. “What?”

I nodded. “Officially, my Father and uncles arrived here to all types of breathtaking marvels on this mountain, all crafted by God. When he saw all of the blue, he knew it was God's blessing to the Four Aces.”

“Everything was already here?”

“Apparently.”

She eyed me. “And unofficially?”

“He spent a good three years and an insane amount of money having artisans, sculptures, and craftsman putting this all together.”

She took in the space. “Your father likes a good story.”

“For him, it isallabout the story.” I scanned the area, trying to see everything from her perspective.

“Whether God built this or humans, it is an amazing place.”

“Mom said that he dreamt about it then spent an entire day doing sketches of different areas on the mountain.”

We threaded our way through the sea of bowed heads and approached the banquet table.

Once we neared the thrones, I released her hand momentarily to draw hers back for her.

---