Page 47 of Influence

Her hand squeezed mine as she replied, “I can’t wait to see it all with you, Niko. I want to hear every story that shaped you.”

“Oh, there are so many,” I said, immersed in the flicker of memories as the past flashed before my eyes like a montage of cherished photographs. “My mother and sister loved this island, and my father and brothers did as well.”

“I can’t imagine your brothers loving anything, sorry,” she stated with disbelief.

“Yeah.” I nodded, capturing the spirited irony. “They were once innocent, not yet transformed into greedy, insensitive assholes. As young boys, we shared many enjoyable moments.My father once envisioned all four of us running his empire together. Unfortunately, that dream has long since faded away.”

“He’d be proud of you today, Niko,” she said in that way that somehow seemed to ease the wounds lingering on my soul.

“Thank you,” I murmured, each syllable heavy with the hope that perhaps I could make up for the disappointments left in the wake of my brothers’ ambitions. “I wish you could have met my mother and sister. They would have adored you, Avra, and Cali.”

“You think so?” Her hopeful delight was evident in the question.

“Definitely,” I assured her. “They were much like the three of you—fiery, unyielding, and never afraid to speak their minds.”

“How so?” she prodded, eagerly anticipating the stories.

“They had sharp tongues and wouldn’t take any shit from anyone,” I explained, laughing as I recalled the times they’d unleashed their tempers.

Laya let out a bright, heartfelt laugh that echoed in the quiet spaces around us, and in that moment, my heart soared with joy.

“I notice that most in Cali,” I said.

A brief shadow flickered across her face, and I knew she was thinking of all Cali had endured and remembering the state she was in when we’d found her.

“Cali is far stronger than you realize, Laya. Never underestimate her. One day, I truly believe she will overcome all her suffering and take powerful action against those who have wronged her.”

Laya sighed, nodding in understanding. “It was incredibly hard on her when my parents passed away. Life was upended in the blink of an eye. We had to flee into the darkness without any real warning. If it hadn’t been for Vik…”

“He saved your lives, even if you didn’t realize it at the time.” Admiration and sorrow filled my thoughts. “I remember when my father learned of your father’s death. He was utterly furious.”

Not long after Laya first entered my life, she asked about the old photographs of our fathers together. I understood that for us to build something lasting, it was essential to share every detail of our histories. So, I’d taken her to a hidden family vault and unveiled documents, old contracts, and heartfelt letters that painted a vibrant picture of the bond our fathers had shared. In the glow of that secret space, we both found comfort in knowing that even amid our turbulent lives, a legacy of deep camaraderie and connection existed.

“Vik did the right thing by faking your deaths and sending you to Prague,” I continued. “Keeping your identity hidden was the only way to protect you. That secret is what trapped fate and kept you safe.”

She reached up to stroke my cheek.

“Thank you for everything, Niko. You’re such a wonderful man,” she whispered, her eyes conveying the truth of her compliment.

“I’m your husband now.” I took her hand and kissed the inside of her palm, savoring the happiness that lit up her face.

“Yes, and I’m your wife,” she affirmed, and as I leaned in to kiss her, our souls embraced in a silent celebration.

“Let’s get this honeymoon started, shall we?” I asked.

“I can’t wait!” she exclaimed, springing up with bubbling enthusiasm and rushing toward the door. I laughed, thoroughly enchanted by the spirited energy that filled the room.

Within twenty minutes, we arrived at the breathtaking estate my father had built for my mother.

“It’s like a castle,” Laya breathed in wonder as she gazed at the grand mansion.

“Papa went a bit overboard.” I laughed. “But wait until you see the view out back. Come on, I’ll show you.”

I guided her through the elegant corridors, pulling her along as her gaze drifted over the regal decor. Priceless art andcarefully chosen antiques adorned each room, with every piece hinting at a life steeped in grandeur and history.

Finally, I brought her to the back of the house and opened the exquisite French doors to reveal an unparalleled landscape. Perched atop a towering cliff, the estate offered a breathtaking view of the expansive, glistening turquoise Ionian Sea, with its waves crashing against the rocks in a constant, soothing rhythm.

“Niko, look at this!” Laya’s excitement bubbled over as sunlight danced on the waves. Her wide eyes reflected the brilliance of the scene.

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