Page 57 of Intrigue

“You’re a sick, sick man.”

“Ironic, isn’t it? Edoardo was originally supposed to plot your death, not realizing you’re his cousin. Though I suppose family killing family is a time-honored tradition. But the bastard got greedy and wanted to wet his dick first.”

And like a flash I remember everything.

The Morettis had always been a threat, but this was different. This wasn’t about power plays or territory disputes. This was personal.

Edoardo Moretti was a pompous ass who wanted to control me.

He had always been too bold, too sure of himself. The way he looked at me at gatherings, the way he spoke about me when he thought I wasn’t listening. Like I was already his.

Now I understand why father played along, indulging the Morettis in their “discussions” about an arranged marriage. And I was commanded, never asked. Just expected to accept my brand new life.

I never thought much of it because after the day was done, I had Alessandro to see at night. He was all that mattered. He alone would be my true love.

But I didn’t know how far it had gone—until the night of the party.

That’s when I learned the truth.

The Morettis weren’t just proposing an alliance. They had already sealed it.

A deal had been struck behind my back. I was to be handed over, married off, bound to Edoardo before the year was over. No say. No escape.

I had confronted him—angry, reckless, and twenty-one—and he had laughed.

“You should be grateful, Selene. I’m doing you a favor. Your father? He’s tired of you. I’m the only reason you’re not dead yet.”

I didn’t understand that statement then. Now I do.

But back then, that’s when it clicked.

It wasn’t just about marriage. My father hadn’t sold me off because I was valuable, but he had done it because he needed me gone.

Now I understand why Edoardo grabbed my wrist so hard and cornered me, trying to force his disgusting self on me, but I snapped.

So much so I didn't remember pulling the knife from his belt. Didn’t remember the first stab. Only the wet, choking sound as he stumbled back and his blood bloomed across his suit.

Or how the second stab was deliberate. Because by the time I had let go of the knife, he was gone.

Breaking out if my reverie, I glare at him. “So the initial engagement with Edoardo I argued against...”

“A convenient way to keep you close while they planned your accident. After the announcement, of course. Can’t have the bride disappearing too soon.” He pulls out his phone, showing me texts. “See for yourself. Edoardo was quite detailed in his plans.”

Edoardo to Don:“Tonight. After the announcement. She won’t see it coming.”

Don:“Clean. No mess. I love her but she just reminds me so much of her mother. I think it will be better for everyone if this happens. “

Edoardo:“Of course. I must avenge my uncle.”

My hands shake as I read messages discussing my death with clinical precision.

Iwasn’t supposed to leave that party alive.

My own father had agreed to it. At least who I thought was my father.

If the Morettis had gone through with their plan, the Marconi Don wouldn’t have retaliated because he had been in on it.

All this while I thought I had acted in self-defense against a power-hungry rival. In reality, I had just unraveled a conspiracy that should have killed me.