Igor fussed over his baby sister's health once she was nursed back consciousness after a long wait of 2 hours. The pressure and stress from whatever that happened had deteriorated her state and the lack of food further worsened her condition. It was currently quarter to one and Igor sat by her bed, feeding her some herbal soup.

As much as Serenity hated the taste, she couldn't complain and focused on gulping the whole thing down without resting it on her taste buds.

"You scared me there for a minute." Igor grumbled, placing away the now empty bowl on the night stand.

Serenity silently spooned into his arms and let out a satisfied sigh " I am alright, Igor. Don't worry."

"How can I not? Thank God for sending that old hag otherwise I would have never forgiven myself for letting those shi- things happen to you."

"Igor" Serenity laughed softly "Its Papy Fostello, don't call him old hag."

Igor rolled his eyes.

"Are you okay?" he asked after a pause.

Serenity hummed, her eyes immersed on one of the Mediterranean painting, hanging on the wall in front of the bed but her mind couldn't cease replaying the way Killian had backhanded her. It was a breaking point and she wasn't sure of what to feel. He broke his promise.

'I promise you, I will never change, I will always come home, never ignore you and always take care of you. '

He changed, he didn't come home, he ignored her and he.....stopped taking care of her.

Serenity drew a sharp breath in once the ache in her chest returns. She blink back the tears. She shouldn't cry, she should learn to accept it no matter how hard it is. People change, she get it. She should move on from her silly childhood memories.

"I-I am not okay, Igor-"

"Seri..."

She shake her head cutting him off "No, I am n-not okay at the moment. But I-I will be fine soon. I promise." She raise her head, meeting his worried eyes with her sparkling orbs glistened in tears and gave him a soft convincing smile.

Igor returned one of his own with a light kiss on her temple.

"By the way, Bruno and Boris sent you some gifts with a letter. I had placed them in your study drawer. And..um t-there is damn!" Igor looked away, cursing.

Serenity frowned "What's wrong Igor?"

Igor released an agitated sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose " Don't freak out but ...athair had invited some important guest for dinner tonight. Everyone is told to be present at 6pm sharp. And- "

"Its just a dinner right? Why are you so tense?"

'Alessandro Vitali will be there.'

Serenity stiffened at his name.

Alessandro Vitali

Midnight blue eyes

The Ice prince who almost strangled her to death last night.

"Oh" she replied abstractedly.

"I will be there with you the whole time, don't fret." Igor assured her.

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Don O'Sullivan squirmed on his seat uncomfortably as Papy Fostello glared down at him from the head chair.

Killian on the other hand, had his jaws clenched, fisted pale knuckles, he absolutely resented the power the old man had over them. As much as he would like to rebel and show the old hag his place, he couldn't. Don O'Sullivan deeply respected and adore his God father and Killian would hate to be on bad terms with any of the superiors when the throne is just a few feet away from him. He didn't care about anything as long as the O'Sullivan mob goes to him. And his own mother had told him that he should even lick the Don's feet if he had to just for the sake of the throne. His hunger for power and dominance had him blinded and the lust for wealth ignited by Mama Victoria had deafened his conscience.

" How is everything going with the Cuban shipment?" Papy Fostello asked gruffly.

"The sixth dump had already been displaced from the port. The Government is silenced and there is nothing to worry about for the next ten ships. The route is clear."

Papy Fostello hummed in reply and flicked his finger towards Killian, telling him to pour more beetroot juice on his chalice. Killian eyes twitched with rage, nevertheless he did as he was told. He couldn't believe he was treated like a waiter in his own house.

Whenever Papy Fostello join them for any meeting, alcohols and other liquors were strictly banned and weird mussy unheard vegetable drinks were served in lieu. As much Disgusting as it looks and taste, no one dared to comment or protest unless they want their ass whooped.

' A true Mafioso must not drink in any of the appointments or meetings to ensure they do not disclose any confidential details.' Papy fostello's words

" I heard you are getting engaged with the Raaperger heiress." Papy Fostello told Killian.

"Yes, our merger will bring 41% raise to our legal business conglomerate. Mr. Raaperger had been under the O'Sullivan protection for a long time and he would finance us the profits with more stocks once the wedding is announced."

Papy Fostello sighed " Pity nowadays, such a holy matrimony is done on the basis of business."

'says the one who dispose wives faster than condoms' Killian thought angrily.

" Dia Athair, The Zhi's are at our back once again. More than 3 billion dollars baggage were seized at the Australian ridge. They have been working up to our purchase and I believe its time we terminate those rascals for good. I have called for a tryst with the Vitali's. Our alliance with the most formidable and powerful mafia will surely cast apprehension on our rivals. Alessandro Vitali with his council will be joining us for dinner tonight after the meeting." Conall said.

Papy fostello instantly sat up now, amused and interested "Alessandro Vitali, you say?" A wide grin crossed over his wrinkled face " The child prodigy. That kid who had beaten your son's ass in the last wild hunt? " he laughed, pointing at Killian's now red face.

"Giovanni Vitali had done a good job in bringing up his children. If I remember correctly, Alessandro, Antonio and Alicia, they were only a year apart from one another but...even the most powerful capos and dons dreaded when the triple A's come together.

Antonia is the best mental giant when it comes to technology. Alicia, the fiery Vitali princess, you never know what cooks inside that little brain, she is likely to devises the battle plans. Alessandro had to sent her away to Minnesota because of all the troubles and pranks she had pulled. And Alessandro himself, is an enigma. Nobody can understand him, he is a born leader, a genius."

Conall and Killian gaped at him silently at his little rant.

"How do you know that?" Killian snapped.

Papy Fostello shrugged with a proud smile "I am a prominent member in the Triple A's fanclub."

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Serenity secretly peeked through her curtains as the train of black SUV's proceeded inside the driveway. Her Athair and mothers stood at the threshold to welcome the important guests. She could see a very distinct red sports car among the black army and immediately guessed it must be him. She wasn't familiar with the branded car names but by the looks of it, she knew it must be extravagant. Her curious eyes gleamed with nervousness as she watched him step out. He still terrified her. His cold midnight eyes surveyed the surrounding before greeting the Don. The powerful stance he held and the dominating aura that mystified within him could be clearly seen even from such a vast distance. Serenity's breath hitched when she get a clear view of his face. She couldn't believe what she was seeing. The previous night, the darkness had shrouded his features except for the glinting dark eyes and she was too afraid to even look at him but right now at the moment, behind the protective sheets of her curtain, she analyzed his face.

He looked divine

As if an angel carved right by the God himself.

The perfectly tousled jet black hair complimented his tanned skin. The rare midnight blue eyes that almost resembled the deepest shade of sapphire, chiseled jawline and strong cheekbones consummate superiority and elegance in a flawless ratio. He was an art and perhaps the most gorgeous man she had ever seen.

He was way more than just handsome....

He was beautiful

Lost and dazed in her thoughts, it was late when she realized he was already staring back at her. Serenity yelped and quickly turned her back against the window, her heart pounding loudly against her chest. She blushed in embarrassment.

Did he see her?

Did she just get caught?

Dumb Serenity! Stupid!

She chewed her lips and nervously walked to her en-suite, not looking back, afraid to meet the cold blue eyes.

After a quick shower to soothe her tense muscles, Serenity walked around her closet, contemplating what to wear for the dinner. Mama Dido always mentioned that they should dress up and put an effort to look good whenever they have guest over. The line of lavish dresses and opulent items stored in racks after racks were causing her to feel light headed. True to her words, Mama Anushka had called a designer to customized her wardrobe.

'Eh! I can't have a hobo for a step daughter' those were her words when Anushka skimmed through her clothes and discarded almost everything that was not up to their standard.

Serenity sighed and just picked up the first thing her eyes caught which was a basic Tee and plain jeans. As for her feet, as much as she likes to walk around barefoot, she slipped onto some fuzzy slippers.

'' No, no, no! You are so not wearing that!"

Serenity flinched at the high pitched scream. Mama Anushka stood by the door with a hand on her hips, her lips pressed in a thin line. The look on her face showed extreme disappointment and frustration. Serenity gulped, intimidated.

"W-What's wrong? Mama" she enquired softly.

"This is what's wrong, you stupid girl!" Anushka yelled, gesturing to her outfit. "Oh goodness! Why is everyone so dumb in this household? I have to do everything myself." she muttered to herself, rolling her eyes.

"Get out of my way!" Anushka pushed a dumbfounded Serenity to the side and attacked the closet like a starved barbarian.

After what seemed like forever she pushed Serenity inside with a dress in hand and ordered her to get changed.

Serenity frowned as she adjusted the skinny strap on her shoulder. It was an elegant black A-line dress that reached her knees. Black- something which was quite common in a mafia household. The dress indeed looked good as she had expected. Of course Anushka is a fashion maniac when it comes to the wardrobe.

She looked down at her breast... When did it become big?

She hardly needed a bra the last time she remembered. Mama Anushka had forced her into a push up bra and it enhanced her cleavage making it look a little deep. Serenity blushed, trying to pull up her neck line.

When she came out, Anushka pull off the scrunchie, letting her auburn locks cascade down her back in waves and nodded in satisfaction.

"Hmm, you look decent enough now. Put on those kitten heels if you want. Come, its time." Anushka shrugged and went away before Serenity could even show her gratitude. She did as she was told. Come to think of it, she found it quite strange to wear heels in her own house, Her sisters and mothers walked around in 6 inch skyscrapers all the time. Was it a norm here? Was she also expected to wear heels everyday?

Serenity shuddered at the thought.

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"Oh darling! You look gorgeous tonight! I can't wait to get you in bed" Papy Fostello grinned, pulling his wife, Natalie into a loud kiss. Natalie giggled cheekily and returned his desire.

The audience silently gagged at the scene. Don O'Sullivan looked away highly embarrassed in front of his guest. The Vitali's, Romero's and Connor's already seated in the dinning hall after a long session of meetings were unfortunately graced by a make out session. Everyone had their faces pulled into grimace and disgust except for Alessandro who just stared at the scene blankly.

"I thought she was his grand daughter."

"No, its apparently his latest wife."

"I have no words..."

"They have an age gap of like what? 50?!?"

"Shss..Don't let him hear you."

" Its disgusting, don't you think so?" Don Romero commented, gauging Alessandro's blank face.

The man in question just raised an uninterested brow " Why? They are just another newly wedded couple."

'You kidding me right?" Don Romero laughed but immediately ceased when Alessandro didn't laugh along.

Don O'Sullivan cleared his throat after Natalie took her seat beside Papy Fostello, "Well gentlemen, please enjoy our hospitality and make yourself comfortable."

The four wives entered elegantly dressed to their best and greeted the men before taking their respective places in the dinning table. Next Camilla and a limping Irina joined them . Killian and Igor were already on the table. There was just one seat left in the farthest corner which was empty. Apparently a little redhead was late.

Alessandro frowned as he studied the people around and his frown deepened when there was no sign of the particular little creature he had been yearning to catch a glimpse. The caterers started serving the starters. The Irish Don had no decency of waiting for his own child, it was such a blatant disrespect and it enraged Alessandro. He clenched his jaw and impatiently listened to old boring talks around him.

"So, Mr. Vitali, what do you say when we perform the ritual oath to sign our alliance?" Conall started the conversation but it did nothing more than irritate Alessandro. He subdued his rising anger and calmly replied in a cold tone " I have not seen how worthy the alliance would be from our side and without personally testing the strength of the mob, I will not give the ritual oath."

Conall nodded eagerly "Of course, you can test our men anytime you please. I am certain you'd be impressed by their valor and dedication. My son, Killian trained them himself everyday."

Killian nodded with a tight smile.

Alessandro returned his eyes back to the empty seat and this time it glinted with sudden delight and amusement, the little bunny had sneaked in without anyone's notice. He felt his mouth twitched at the side. Her delicate fingers were pinching her earlobes as she moved her soft lips mouthing something to someone who sat across her on the other side. He read her lips. It was just one simple word 'Sorry'

He wondered who she was apologizing too and followed her eyes who were trained on the younger O'Sullivan, Ador or Egard something? It calmed him unknowingly that it was just her brother. He didn't know how he would have reacted if she was talking to some other male species. The thought of her even being with some other man makes his blood boiled. Alessandro was shocked at himself when the foreign feeling of jealousy sprouted at just a mere thought.

As hard as it was to strain his eyes away from the alluring little beauty, Alessandro forced himself to turn away. Accidentally he met Papy Fostello's eyes and the old man smirked at him with an knowing glint.

Nothing escapes Papy's eyes after all.

Serenity grinned a Thank you when Igor passed her her favorite well-done topless Rueben sliders for the appetizer. They communicated through their eyes as words exchange can be disrespectful if it didn't include the guest. Igor kept making funny faces trying to ease her but it was interrupted when Mama Albina kicked her son under the table with a glare.

As much as Serenity tried to ignore the burning gaze on the side of her head, she couldn't. Why was he looking at her? The question made her feel restless and anxious. He didn't even try to be discreet about it, every time she turn to her head to her right, she keep meeting those cold blue eyes. She cannot even eat in peace. Serenity pondered if she had offended him with the evening's little activity when she had peeked in the window to watch him. But it wasn't a crime to just innocently watch someone right?

which exactly is what he's doing right now, her subconscious started again.

No, she thought, him watching her makes her insides churned in what seems like anxiety and excitement. Serenity shook her head rapidly trying to dissolve her thoughts somewhere in the dark corner of her mind. She never wanted the yesterday's and this morning's incident to repeat ever again and for that she had to stay away from the 'Alessandro Vitali ' as far as she can.

She quietly excused herself for washroom, glancing at him for one last time and fled off the dinning hall.

Alessandro tried hard to suppress the twitch on his lips, she sure was an amusing creature.

"Why is he doing this?" Serenity mumbled, washing her hand on the sink after doing her business. She didn't think she could endure those demonic eyes anymore. Sighing to herself, she ran a wet hand over some untamed fringes. There was still a slight discoloration on her left cheek, a pang hit her heart as she stared at it. Serenity let out a loud gasp trying to control some treacherous tears. She hated that she was sensitive.

Dwelling on those unwanted memories would only hurt her more, she walked out of the washroom while patting a fingertip at the corner of her eyes to collect those watery sheds.

Unaware of the large man standing a few feet away from her, Serenity ran into him.

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HEHEHE!!! I know I am evil and that you all are waiting for Alessandro to beat the shit out of Killian. Don't worry fellas. The tea is boiling! And I would like to serve you all nice and hot!

Oh thank you so much for 15K! I love you all so so so so so so so so so much!

A virtual hug for everyone!

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