Chapter 8 - The Gala Trap
The Grand Ballroom of the Continental Hotel was dripping in gold, crystal, and blood money.
The men wore tailored tuxedos; the women wore diamonds that cost more than a small island.
But the tension in the room was thick enough to choke on.
I was escorted in through the back entrance by two of Damien's most trusted guards. I wore a simple black dress, my wrists bound in front of me with a silk tie to complete the illusion of captivity.
Damien stood at the head table, radiating dark, lethal energy.
When Vincenzo entered the room, a murmur rippled through the crowd. He looked triumphant, strutting like a king who had already won his crown.
Dinner was served, but no one was eating.
As the dessert plates were cleared, Vincenzo stood up, tapping a spoon against his crystal champagne glass.
One-two-three.
The sound sent a chill down my spine. It was the same rhythm I used to save the babies. Vincenzo was mocking me.
"Family," Vincenzo called out, his voice echoing through the silent ballroom. "We are gathered here to celebrate our strength. But tonight, I must speak of weakness."
He turned his gaze toward Damien.
"Our beloved boss, Damien, has lost his way. He allowed his children to be poisoned, and instead of finding the culprit, he brought a snake into his own home."
Vincenzo pointed a dramatic finger at me.
"This woman, Ellie Hart, is a spy for the Barone family. I found the poison in her room. I have the bank statements proving she was paid off."
The room erupted into furious whispers. Men shifted their jackets, hands resting on concealed weapons.
"By the laws of our syndicate," Vincenzo shouted over the noise, "A boss who cannot protect his bloodline cannot protect us! I call for a vote to remove Damien Moretti!"
Damien didn't flinch. He slowly wiped his mouth with a napkin, stood up, and buttoned his jacket.
"You make bold claims, cousin," Damien said, his voice cutting through the room like a cold blade. "Bring the girl forward."
The guards pushed me into the center of the room.
I kept my head down, playing the part.
"Confess," Vincenzo snarled at me. "Tell them how you poisoned the boys."
May you like
I looked up, meeting Vincenzo's eyes. And I smiled.
"I didn't poison them," I said clearly, my voice ringing out through the microphone on the head table. "You did."
