Annnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnd we're back.

I apologize for the incredibly long wait! I appreciate everyone that messaged me asking if I was okay; I most certainly am, just busy with school!

This chapter is .... 13K words so take your time! Also, this sets up a lot of the drama that will unfold, so enjoy And comment, please! I'll be reading! Lol.

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"The Tiger and the Lion may be more powerful, but the Wolf does not perform in the circus." – Unknown.

- - - -

And again, I was the center of attention. I was the first person both Liam and Rico looked to as I doubled over, upchucking my breakfast and the little bit of the lunch we had eaten earlier on the way home. Dominic's gaze dropped to his feet as he lifted his hands in a disgusted manner. His expression was in a twisted state of disgust, maybe even anger. No one spoke, no one even dared to breathe.

"Maid," I heard Dom whisper as I straightened myself up, still feeling queasy. My stomach was doing all sorts of flips and turns that I truly didn't appreciate. My face felt hot and the air in the room was thick, making it harder to inhale. Dominic had always been a soft, yet powerful speaker whenever I heard him talk; but this time, he raised his voice. His demand practically shook the walls. "Maid! Get me a fucking Maid!"

I slapped a hand over my mouth as I felt myself growing sick once again. I didn't wait till I threw up over Dom for a second time; I bolted past Liam, causing him to stumble backwards, and ran out the door. Rico and Luciano's facial expressions would forever be burned into the back of my mind, including the look that would be forever engraved on Alex's face. Federico looked like he was trying his best to suppress a laugh; Liam looked concerned, but nothing else.

I heard Rico let out a laugh the minute I stepped out into the hallway, briskly walking towards the closest bathroom. "She fucked you up, Dominic." He lets out a series of chuckles that end up fading the farther I walk away.

I didn't linger around to hear Dominic's surely sarcastic response. Two or three well dressed women ran past me at Dom's call as I step into the foyer, briskly walking through and up the steps towards the only bathroom I was familiar with. Tears stung the back of my throat and pricked the corner of my eyes as I scrambled up the last few steps, barging straight into Liam's bedroom. It didn't take long for me to reach the toilet, fall to my knees, and throw up whatever was left in my stomach.

The tile floor was cold and hurt my knees the longer I kneeled there, feeling sick. The feeling of throwing up alone was uncomfortable; it sent a pain shooting through your stomach and left you feeling like absolute shit. Hair gathered around my face as I was finally able to breathe through my mouth again. The door opened quietly as the person stepped in, coming up behind me.

Cold finger tips brushed against either side of my cheeks as I felt all my hair leaving my side and being pulled back. Initially, I had jumped at the unfamiliar contact. A pair of hands fell to my waist as I lifted a hand, pulling at my hair that was now done up in a pretty good ponytail. Despite the sick feeling that remained in my stomach, I smiled, knowing good and well who it was before I turned around.

"A big, scary mafia leader just so happens to carry around a hair tie in his pocket?"

Luciano's hands gripped my waist as he hauled me to my feet unsteadily and turned me around. My knees wobbled a bit, causing me to reach out, grabbing his forearms. Liam doesn't return my smile, but he does respond in a serious manner. "I must when I have a seven year old sister."

I just nod.

"Are you feeling okay?" My hands slip from his forearm as he gathers them in his own, shaking them to get my attention. His beautiful, naturally brown eyes search my own for any type of answer; but the tears that form ever-so quickly cloud my response.

I tug my hands away from him, desperately beginning to wipe at the falling tears. My throat was about to close up, so I stuttered out a, "I want to go home," as fast as I could. Liam laughed at that; it wasn't a laugh that made me think he thought what I said was funny. But it was more of a laugh that was caused when you didn't know what else to say, as if you didn't believe a word the person just said.

"Faith, that's ridic – "

I took a step back when Liam tried to approach me, arms out. He looked distressed, but cute as usual. It had been a long day and his eyes seemed to droop more than usual, his outfit was a bit worn, and the longer strands of his hair were beginning to fall limp across his forehead.

I threw my arms behind my back, interlocking my own hands together as I pressed myself up against the wall. I shook my head so hard I began to see stars. Tears streamed down my face in a crooked line, tickling my chin as they reached the bottom and fell to the hard floor below. "I want to go home," I repeat myself. "His head, Liam. His head."

"I know, Faith I know," He takes a cautious step forward, his head tilted a bit to the side. He looked apologetic, like the fact that one of his men's head was in a box; but it wasn't Liam's fault – it was mine.

"First Bobby, now Alex," I pick my gaze back up from the floor. "How many more people are going to die because of me?"

"Faith... it isn't your fault – "

"Yes, it is," My hands form fists as I grind my teeth together. "It's my fault those little children don't have a father anymore, it's my fault you're down another man. Corinelli is going to keep coming till he gets what he wants."

"Then let him," Liam laughs with a shrug. He shakes his head as he closes the gap, not allowing an inch of space between us. "I'm not letting you leave."

I lower my voice to a whisper as Liam looks down on me. "If something ever happened to you, Federico, or Dominic; I would never forgive myself." Liam cups my cheeks as he tilts my head towards him. He looks at me deeply, shaking his head all the while.

"Dom and Rico are some of the most talented people you will ever meet," He starts off, "Don't worry about them. And don't worry about me." I did, I tried to ink out the truth in his statement, but I couldn't find any. Yes, Dominic and Rico are talented, but a bullet can stop anybody.

Hell, even Superman has a weakness.

I blink back another set of tears as I slide to the right, causing Liam's hands to drop back to his side. He keeps his distance this time, not pushing whatever boundaries I was trying to set. I didn't know a lot of things, but I did know this: "Liam, I want to go home."

He wanted to argue, that much was obvious. His face was contorted in an expression of confusion and frustration. Liam lets out an irritated sigh, but instead of refusing once again, he steps to the side; clearing my path towards the door that led back into the bedroom. With a hand shoved deep into the pocket of his pants, he looks to me.

I had convinced myself that Liam would give in and point towards the door, allowing me free access to pack whatever clothing he had bought me and leave; but at the last second, he seemed to alter his words, simply muttering my name in an upset fashion. "Faith – " A rapid knocking on the door tore our attention away from each other.

"Um, Mr. Luciano, I'm so sorry," A woman stood at the door, one that I recognized from around the house. She was beautiful; tall, yet thin, with long hair. She looked highly apologetic as she glanced towards me, knowing good and well she had interrupted our conversation. The tension in the room was hard to miss. "You have a guest in the living room," She finishes.

"A guest?" I watch Liam turn his wrist towards his face, eyeing his shimmering watch for a second. He drops his arm back to his side, "It's nearly eleven at night. I didn't invite anyone over." It was clear Luciano wasn't his happiest, and the woman acknowledged her bosses mood fairly quickly. When she didn't respond, Liam waved her off. "Tell him to come sometime tomorrow." He turns back to me, giving me a caring look. He had already dismissed and ended the conversation with the woman at the door as he took a step towards me, preparing to address me once again – but he was cut off.

"Her." She speaks up again, "Liam, it's a woman."

Luciano didn't turn around to answer the lady. He continued to stare at me, but I knew his mind, his attentions, his thoughts – they were not on me. I saw his jaw lock and lips split, proving to me that he was grinding his teeth together in an irritated fashion. When he spoke again, his voice had grown deep and his accent thick.

"What's her name?" He used a tone I was all too familiar with. His voice was laced with anticipation, maybe even a form of nervousness as he awaited the answer.

The response was delayed, but it came in a quiet, shy tone. "Camilla Rodriguez."

Her name didn't register as quickly for me as it did Liam. Anger flashed across his features as the woman and I both waited for a verbal answer. The look in Liam's eye only intensified my curiosity and he remained silent as whatever anger he was feeling began to boil. Luciano takes a deep breath and speaks in a low, shaky voice.

"Faith... I'll be back."

He was already beginning to back pedal as the woman took three steps to the side, opening the doorway up to Liam as he began to leave. I shouted out a, "No!", ran over to the sink and grabbed my temporary tooth brush. Six scrubs and three rinses later, I was at Liam's side. "I want to see this."

Keeping up with Liam's strides was an impossible task. He was halfway down the steps before I had even crossed Rico's closed bedroom door. I had to jog before I found myself at Liam's side as he landed on the quiet first floor. I was breathing heavily as Luciano and I brush past a few people talking, heading in the direction of the living room.

"Is uh, is this the woman you almost slept with?"

Liam comes to a full stop.

I have to backtrack to reach his side again.

"To get on her father's good side again, yes. And I apologize." He doesn't wait for me to say anything. We finish our journey to the passageway of the living room and we both stop, our eyes falling on the three figures that occupy the well-furnished room.

Federico and the woman known as Camilla sit on one sofa, with little to no space between them. Her evenly toned legs are long and crossed, flung loosely over Rico's knee. Her back is pressed against the arm rest as Rico leans over, his smile evident. My eyes widen as I nudge Liam's elbow, but I knew he was seeing this too. The woman throws her head back in a laugh, a response to whatever Federico had just whispered in her ear. He drags his lips slowly down her cheek and dipping them towards her neck.

Neither Liam nor I had anything to say. My eyes fell to Camilla and they stayed there. She was model material; with long, dark hair and perfect olive colored skin. Hoop earrings dangled from her ears and her hair was pulled back into a slick, perfect ponytail. Her lips parted again as Rico muttered something else to her. His hands reached up to her hair, slowly pulling the twisty out, un-doing her ponytail. Liam finally spoke when Rico started to misplace his hands, slowly sliding them up her clothed thigh.

"Grayson," He growls out. Then he turns to Dominic, who sits oddly silent in the corner, his phone in front is face. "And Dominic," Liam finishes. The two snap their attention towards him. "Sidebar." Luciano doesn't even address the woman.

Liam didn't wait to watch as Rico and Camilla untangled themselves from each other. Federico doesn't give her a second look as he follows Luciano out, then Dom, and lastly me. Camilla doesn't look my way once Rico left; she pulls out her phone that resembles a freaking laptop and snaps on her gum.

It took about five seconds to realize that Dom was walking through the foyer shoeless. Liam led the way, walking down another hallway in search of some sort of privacy. I could tell Dom was going to be the first to speak; his right hand fiddled with his left, more than likely rotating his wedding ring around his finger continuously as his thoughts increased and his desire to address Liam grew.

Luciano stops in front of a door and points inside. Federico waltzes in without a word. I linger behind as Dominic comes to a stop and lowers his voice. "Liam," He lets out a soft, nervous chuckle. "Camilla Rodriguez is not as unattractive as you said she was."

"Dominic, when you only have eyes for one woman, everyone else is unattractive." Liam nods towards the room, silently indicating for Dom to keep moving. I was pretty sure I was blushing.

By the time Liam gave me an exasperated look, interlocked his hand with mine, and entered the room with me at his side, Dom and Rico were already seated. Federico had cleaned up mighty quickly between the time I threw up on Dominic and Camilla came. He had shed the hoodie he had been supporting most of the day and changed briskly into a short sleeved burgundy shirt and faded jeans.

The two sat side by side, their feet resting firmly on the carpeted floor. Liam leaned against a desk in the room, crossed his legs at his ankles, folded his arms across his chest and stated, "Explain," He waves a hand at the two of them. Silence follows, causing Luciano to add, "Take your time, I have plenty of it."

And more silence. I stifled a laugh at Dominic and Rico's childlike behavior. On occasion, the two would glance at each other out the corner of their eyes. It reminded me of a parent finding a broken item in the house and gathering their two children together in hopes one of them ratted out the other.

Liam tilts his head towards Dom, giving him an inquiring look.

Dominic cracks.

He stands and shakes his head, approaching Liam. "Liam, I have always wanted what was best for this family, you know that – "

" – then why do you keep going behind my back to do stuff?"

"Everything," Dom emphasizes, "That I have gone behind your back to do has been for the good of the family." Liam shakes his head, but Dominic continues, "At the time, you didn't seem fit to run the family, so I suggested doing it; simply because I knew you trusted me and I knew I could do it."

"And as for Camilla?"

"I did the math," Dominic replies, "By not having Mr. Rodriguez's business; you won't be making as much money. I did more math; and his supply is the most popular. So, yes, I called her earlier today while we had our little break and invited her over so Rico could...uh," Dom glances over at Rico, then back to Liam, "Do his thing."

"I told you Dominic, I did not want Federico anywhere near her." Liam's statement quiets the entire room.

"Liam, trust me."

I shoot a glance at Rico as Dom and Liam continue to argue. The younger man just sits there, hands folded in his lap. His hazel eyes dart between Dom, Liam, then back to Dom again as his name slips past their lips almost repeatedly. He looks mesmerized by the argument, but not upset or saddened. He's completely unaware of my stare as he turns his head again, back and forth between his two friends. A smile crosses my face as the most innocent look is plastered across his features, making him look nearly ten years younger.

I zone back in on their argument. Dominic was patting his chest with an open palm, "Dammit, just trust me, Liam. What else do you have to lose? Who cares if Rico kills her? You and her father will still be on the outs; you aren't losing anything with this."

"I think Rico should do it. I trust him."

Everyone turns to me.

Dominic smiles immediately as he hears me side with him; Liam looks bewildered, and Rico, happy. I truly didn't know if I even wanted to hear what Luciano was thinking in the moment. He looked severely lost, like I had just switched to the opposite team in the middle of a war we had been fighting together.

Dom turns back to Liam, shrugging. "Two to one; I think I win."

Luciano sighs, defeated. He turns to Rico and gives him an expecting look. "Do not kill her."

"Seducing and killing are two different things," Rico says as he stands to his feet. "And I have perfected the art of both." He winks playfully at both of them before turning to me, his back now towards Dom and Liam. Rico winks again as he brushes past me and walks out into the hall, non-verbally thanking me for siding with him.

Dominic and Liam don't share anymore words as we exit into the hall and continue walking back. We reach the living room once again and walk inside, but I had a feeling this was the last place Luciano wanted to be. I stopped with him at the doorway. I wasn't particularly interested in actually sitting down and talking with Camilla.

The woman was tall, her height mainly coming from the heels that covered her feet. She stood at the mantle in the corner, near the fireplace, glancing at whatever pictures Liam had on display. Camilla turns back around at the sound of us approaching and smiles wide.

Dominic is the first to speak, considering Rico is nowhere to be found.

"Miss Rodriguez?" He steps forward and holds out his left hand. She slides her petite hand in his and speaks up once again, "I don't believe we were properly introduced; Dominic Santiago." He presses his lips to the back of her hand.

Her eyes fall to his ring. "I don't believe Mrs. Santiago would appreciate such affection."

Dominic's cheeks grow flush. It was hard to tell, but his complexion grew a bit darker. He pulls his hand away. "She died, er, she passed away," He explains.

"Oh," Camilla's expression doesn't change; she doesn't look truly sad or sympathetic, but she puts on a frown anyways. "Aw. Well, at least it's excruciatingly warm where she is."

The insult she threw didn't exactly hit Dom till she had walked away and stood in front of Liam. I could see Dominic's expression as he stared at the back of her head, his mouth open. His hand finds the curls of his hair as he mutters a breathless, "Wow." And he turns away.

"Liam," She greets. Camilla extends her neatly manicured hand to Liam and waits. Luciano keeps his hands in his pockets, practically staring the woman directly in her eye.

He finally gives up and shoves a hand towards her; they shake loosely.

She takes a step to her left and smiles down at me. "Aw," Yet, she doesn't address me as she angles her head towards Liam, pointing at me. "It's cute. You know," She begins to explain to Liam by putting her hands up to her neck, "You should totally buy like a purple collar for it."

My mouth drops.

Liam was equally as shocked; he didn't have a response for her in the moment.

I swallow, hard and take a step back, "I'm sorry," I laugh harshly, "Is there anything on you that isn't fake?"

The fake eyelashes, the face caked with makeup, the obvious extensions, and the possible temporary breast enhancers were all purchasable.

Camilla turns back to me.

"By the way," I point towards her, rotating my finger in a circle around her face, "Who did your makeup? Hellen Keller?"

My confidence rises as I fold my arms across my chest and lean most of my weight on my back foot, eyeing Camilla with a raised brow. A smirk teases Liam's lip at my response and Dominic struggles to swallow the shot of champagne he had begun to take just a few seconds before.

"You little – " She lunged at me, her fake nails preparing themselves to claw my skin but Luciano stops her. As quickly as she had made a move in my direction, Liam had grabbed my wrist, yanking me back behind him. Camilla hits his chest.

"Touch her," Liam whispers threateningly, "And you'll be returning to your family in Mexico in a casket." The shove Liam gave her was hardly noticeable, but she stumbled backwards a bit on her heels.

She laughs after she catches her balance. "Is that how your mother taught you to how treat a lady?"

"I don't see one," Liam replies.

"Is it just me? Or is the tension in here thick?" Rico cuts the stare down Liam and Camilla were currently having in half. He waltzes in the room with two glasses and a champagne bottle in one hand. Without a word from either of us, he sets it down on the coffee table and turns to face us all.

"Rico, put a leash on your bitch," Liam doesn't shy away from raising his voice, clearly speaking about Camilla.

"That isn't polite," Federico obverses out loud. We all watch silently as he turns away, beginning to fill each glass with Champagne. When he finishes, he straightens himself back up. With a glass in hand, he waltzes over towards us, a smug grin resting on his face.

Both Luciano and Rico shared a brief period of eye contact, before the mood in the room changes. With his hand still firmly grasping the glass, Federico wraps his arms around Camilla's thin waist, gently nuzzling his face in the crook of her neck. The simple form of affection that Federico was clearly showing the woman didn't bother me in the slightest, but it was the wicked look Rico shoots Liam within the moment that does.

Camilla was blind to it as she tilted her head in the opposite direction, smiling wide. She didn't see Rico lift his head, his eyes peering just over her shoulder as he shot Luciano one of the most deadliest looks I had ever seen.

"Why doesn't your father like Liam?"

Miss Rodriguez blinks, "Excuse me?" She quickly untangles herself from Rico's arms and turns around, a puzzled look crossing her face. Rico's expression quickly contorts to one of innocence and curiosity. His fingers tighten around the glass, causing a muscle in his bicep to twitch.

"Your father, Mr. Rodriguez – "

"I know who my father is, dumbass." Her flirty demeanor changes rapidly as she throws her arms across her chest and leans back on her heel, showing Rico her attitude. Camilla's hair whips in the wind as he turns towards Liam, then glances at a silent Dominic in the corner. "Is that was this is about?" She turns back to face Rico, when Dominic and Liam's facial expressions give her no sort of answer.

Federico's hand drops from the back of his neck, where he had been rubbing nervously. It was an act, a façade; because, hell, when was Federico ever nervous?

I took a step back and to my left, my shoulder brushing against Luciano's arm. Dominic even pushed himself away from the wall, the scene that was playing out in front of all of us could be well predicted.

"No, I didn't mean that – "

"Well listen to me, Fuckrico," Her heels clatter on the floor as she takes two steps in his direction. The heels altered her height, making her just an inch or so shorter than Rico. "If you all's-" She rotates, pointing at Liam and Dominic in the process, "-plan was to fuck me, just so I would tell my father just how amazing you or Liam are, well then, you have another thing coming."

Federico's eyebrows twitch together as the woman snatches his glass of champagne out his hand. She turns on her heels, taking a sip. She sips, swallows, and points a middle finger at Dominic. "Fuck you." She turns to Liam, sips, and points to him, "Fuck you," then she finishes her circle by turning back to Rico. She sips again, but this time, she doesn't swallow. "And fuck you," and without warning, without hesitation, she spits the champagne in his face.

Saliva, mixed with the alcoholic drink layered Rico's face. It rolled down his features, dampening his eyebrows and moistening his lips. His eyelashes were wet as he reopened his eyes and a dot of champagne threatened to drip off the brim of his nose. With a closed fist, he wipes at his lips in a disgusted manner.

She takes another step towards him, clearly not threatened in any shape or form by the man standing before her. The second she raises a finger to his face, I see Dominic flinch; it was nearly unnoticeable, but both Liam and I caught it. He was beginning to reach for his own gun. The two share a look, causing Dom to stand down.

"If you, or any of these pathetic men think they can convince me to do something by seducing me, then you all are ignorant shits."

Rico finally responds, "Pathetic? Isn't that a little harsh?"

The smile that was beginning to tug on his lips was a reason to be concerned.

"You can stare at my ass on the way out, bitch." Camilla extends a hand, already mentally prepared to shove Rico backwards, just a bit. I wasn't sure if she truly knew what she was dealing with; I wasn't sure whether she attempted to push him to get separation, or simply because she was pissed off; but her hand never made contact with his chest.

Federico had his hand clamped around her wrist, her fingers just inches from being able to clamp onto his t-shirt. No words are spoken between the two as he yanks her towards her, causing Camilla to cry out in pain. Her chest hits his and as she ricochets backwards, she trips, falling hard to the ground. She hadn't tripped on accident, but Rico had caused it; the second her chest hit his, he wrapped his leg around her own, causing her fall.

"I've never seen seduction quite like this," Dominic speaks out. He gets a chuckle from Liam, but other than that, it was quiet.

Camilla had her hands pressed against her temples, attempting to stop the ringing in her head. Her eyes were squeezed shut, her body still. It was clear she was in pain after her head had smacked against the floor; she had nothing to break her fall.

"Miss Rodriguez," Rico stands over the woman's body, his feet on either side of her. He squats and rests his forearms on his thighs, slowly licking his lips. I couldn't help but notice that his learned Italian accent was back and truthfully, it was something with anger that seemed to bring it out. "I do not need to seduce someone to get what I want."

He drops to his knees, straddling the frightened woman. Slowly, almost menacingly, like a lion would crowd around his murdered prey, Rico leans forward, a knife now in his hand. The woman shakes as her chest rises and falls with every unsure breath. I slowly grew empathetic of the woman lying on the floor, knowing good and well just how terrifying the situation she was currently in may be.

"Listen to me, Camilla, because I do not repeat myself." The weapon Federico has in his hand slowly drags up the woman's side, sliding teasingly across her skin. When it reaches her neck, she flinches, hard. She hardly moves as Federico leans forward anymore, a wicked chuckle escaping past his lips. "Tomorrow at 10:59 in the morning, your father will call Liam with a deal; their friendship, their partnership will be mended, simply because you told him everything he wanted to hear, everything we want you to say."

"T-ten fifty nine?" She squeaks out.

"Isn't that what I said?" Rico deadpans. He blinks a few times, then speaks again, "I said 10:59 and I mean no later and no earlier. If your father calls at 11 on the dot, I will not only track you down, but I will kill your mother, your siblings, your aunts, your uncles," Federico slaps the ground above her head, causing her to shake with terror, "I will kill their children, your cousins; I will kill their pets and I'll move on to your father's side." Rico talks through gritted teeth, "I will do the same to his side of the family, I will wipe out your entire goddamn family tree before you can even blink!" She shudders once again as he raises his voice, "Then I'll kill you," He whispers loudly. The room grew dead silent as Federico leaned down even more, his lips just inches from hers. Yet, he spoke up, "You won't even hear the knock on your fucking door."

With the knife in his hand, Federico stands. Camilla doesn't scramble to her feet to grab her belongings, instead, she lies their; still scared.

In silence, we watch Rico pocket the knife. He flipped it closed and shoved it between his hips and his pants. He pulls his shirt over it, completely hiding the weapon from view. With a glare, he leaves the woman's side and marches up to Liam and I.

"I got a girl wet in..." Rico glances at his watch, "3 minutes. Beat that." And without another word, he stalks past Liam and exits the room.

Our gazes fall on Camilla as she slowly rises to her feet, still visibly shaken. Dominic doesn't wait for an altercation; he leaves shortly after Rico without a word. I kept my mouth shut, like usual, but Liam on the other hand spoke. He nods, along with points, to the area of the ground where she had been laying just a few seconds prior.

"Clean your piss off my floor and leave."

With a nod of acknowledgment, Liam angles his body towards the exit and leaves, with me in tow.

The remainder of the night was quiet and drama-less. By the time the altercation with Camilla was over and a polite maid escorted her out the house, the first floor was quiet. A few people still lingered around snacking on grapes and laughing with others, but the majority of the residents in Luciano's home had gone to their rooms, possibly to bed.

Liam and I climbed the steps together, him always being a few steps ahead of me. Both Dominic and Rico's doors were closed, no sound came from either of them. My thoughts continued to flutter to Alex, his head, what Corinelli had done to him, to the dinner that he had oh-so formally invited us too. It truly didn't sound like a grand idea.

Liam had already entered the room by the time I began to close the door, separating us from the rest of the house. He was quiet, seemingly focused as I folded my hands across my chest and simply watched him. He sat on the edge of the bed, eyeing his shirt's material before unbuttoning it quickly. I got a good, long glimpse at his profile; the sharpness of his jaw, fullness of his lips, the longer strands of hair falling gingerly over his forehead. My heart fluttered.

"Ms. Crawford."

I snapped out of the attracted trance that I had fallen in and zoned back in on Liam and his voice. He still faced away from me as he sat on the bed, eyeing the wall to my right. He slid the dress shirt off his shoulders slowly, only drawing my attention to them and not his face. The sleeve folded inside out as he tossed it behind him a bit and turned to me, shirtless. A gold chain hung around his neck tightly, glistening beneath the bedroom light.

My eyes locked to the necklace he wore around his neck and I focused in on it, my curiosity rising. I could tell Liam was glancing over in my direction, a slight look of amusement crossing his features. Despite the fact that I wasn't focusing in on his face, I could see him pat the bed beside him, calling me over.

By the time I sat down on the bed, Liam had slipped off and gotten to his knees. He pulls himself around, now having to look up at me from his kneeled position on the floor. Without a word, he rests his forearms on either side of my legs, encaging me.

"What are you doing?" A smile crosses my face as I let out a slight laugh, my ears keen to Liam's answer. He doesn't smile very wide, hell, he hardly smiled at all; but the corner of his lips twitched and he fought the urge to release a bright grin.

He drops his head as a reaction, before raising it and eyeing me deeply. "A king always bows down to his queen, yes?"

I was rendered speechless. My mouth fell open and closed multiple times as Liam quirked an eyebrow, awaiting a response. His smile only grew as my complexion turned red, quickly. His chuckles broke the silence and goosebumps appeared on my arms as he pinched at my cheeks briefly, a hearty laugh on his lips.

Liam runs his thumb down my cheek, before dropping it back at his side. "You look worried, what's wrong." I nearly jump when he rests a hand on my thigh and squeezes for reassurance.

"I..." That was all I had for him. His eyes were piercing my own and I truly found it hard to formulate a valid sentence. His hand shook my leg after a silent moment, but I didn't continue to speak. "I'm alright," I finally choke out, forcing a smile for his well-being. But Liam didn't buy it. He stood to his feet, looking concerned. "I'm happy!" I try and persuade him, "See?" I shut my eyes and show him a smile that exposed all of my teeth; it was an over-exaggeration for sure, but I was hoping I got my point across.

Luciano's hands find mine as he interlocks them and pulls me to my feet. He pins me between himself and the edge of the bed, both of us sharing a look for the longest twenty seconds of my life. He presses a kiss to the back of my hand, before squeezing it and pulling me even closer. His fingertips brush against the corner of my lips, his eyes locked on mine.

"A smile does not portray happiness," He spoke softly, underneath his breath, as if there was someone else is the room. The feeling of his fingertips brushing across my cheek alone reminded me of the night we shared a few evenings ago. He stops once he reaches the corner of my eye. "A smile can fake happiness, it can create an illusion for those that do not understand; but true emotion is expressed in the eyes."

His large hands cup my cheeks as he tilts my head towards him and he leans forward just a bit, causing me to hold my breath. Cologne, the same scent he had been wearing since we had met, filled my nostrils; it had a different effect on me now; instead of causing fear, it caused butterflies, right in the pit of my stomach.

"You're sad," Liam continues in a hushed tone, "You're upset, you're worried. I've seen your eyes when you're happy, they glisten, they...they... they're so beautiful." I drop my gaze, seizing up beneath his intense stare.

"I don't feel comfortable going to this man's house," I finally admit without looking up. "He's going to take me from you, he's going to hurt you or Rico or Dominic; I don't trust him."

"Faith..."

"Liam, he's a liar, a murderer; did you see what he did to Alex?"

Luciano doesn't have a reply for me. He simply raises a hand, latching it around the engraved golden necklace he wore. It was one I didn't recognize, one I hadn't realized he even had early on. Without a verbal answer, Liam lifts his hands behind his back, quietly fumbling with the necklaces latch. I take note of his abdomen muscles and pectoral muscles as he does so. When his hands find mine once again, he was dropping the necklace in my hand and pointing at it.

With confusion written all over my face, I flipped it over and pulled it close to my face, attempting to read the small lettering. My thumb brushed across it as I said the Italian word out loud, but with hesitation.

"Lealtà"

I look back up to Luciano, awaiting his answer.

"Si," He replies with a little smile, "Lealtà". In translation, loyalty." I swallow hard as I continue to inspect it, impressed by the cursive writing it had been engraved in. "In his letter," Liam begins to explain, "Corinelli said that all hits were called off, he said he wouldn't hurt you and I have to take him on his word. He will be loyal to his word.

"No, you do – "

"I must," He retorts hastily, "Italians do not break their word, Fi. And I must believe and know that neither will Corinelli." He tilts my head back upwards, his lips pursed in a straight line. "You must understand, I would never purposely put you in harm's way and if I believe it's safe, you should trust me."

"I trust you." My answer wasn't delayed, nor did I hesitate. I did trust Liam, I had no reason not to, not anymore. Although his smile was soft, it was noticeable.

Our conversation dies after my confession. I wouldn't call it awkward, but even though Liam was still eyeing me, I knew his thoughts were somewhere far, far away. He blinks again and nods as I hand him back his necklace, smiling.

"Do you still want to go home?" The volume he spoke with had dropped significantly, and it almost appeared as though he was hesitant in even asking the question. I could've sworn Liam tried to close the non-existent gap between us, which caused the temperature in the room the skyrocket. I dodged him, moving right, and stepping away, breathing deeply.

I walked away from him, leaving Liam standing beside the bed. With my back towards Luciano, I kept my head bowed and my hands interlocked, nervously playing with my fingers. When I finally did turn around, Liam had seated himself on the bed once again, curiously eyeing me; still waiting silently for my answer.

"Of course I do."

He raises an eyebrow and opens his mouth to speak, but I cut him off.

"And it isn't anything you've done but of course I'd rather sleep in my own bed and not have old, weird, Italian men trying to kill me."

Liam let out a breath and stood up. "You won't always be having old, weird, Italian men trying to kill you," He layered his words with a hint of sarcasm before taking a step forward, slowly closing the gap between us once again. "When you said you wanted to go home earlier, truth be told, it kind of hurt."

"It isn't anything you've done, Liam," I tried to reassure him, because Luciano was not the issue. Liam, himself, was never the problem, not anymore; the problem resided in his lifestyle and the dangers that revolve around him on a daily basis. "It's amazing being able to say I've stayed in your home, it's a dream to say I've ridden in a Ferrari, and I'm grateful that you even took time out of your life to help me, but this life isn't...It's not..."

"For you?" Liam finishes my thoughts, my statement, perfectly.

"Exactly."

"Do you care about me?"

His question came quickly and threw me off by just the slightest measure. I thought about my answer as he stood there, his head tilted a bit to the side. His sarcastic undertone was gone and the conversation grew serious fairly quickly.

I blew out air through my nose loudly and folded my arms across my chest, providing Liam my answer. He eyed me with curiosity, trying to read my body language, but I could tell he was having a hard time.

"If I told you, that I had a plane ticket for you to fly back home to your adopted parents, would you go?"

"Hell yes." I unfolded my arms, curious as to where Liam was taking this.

I hardly noticed our proximity till he was right up on me, again.

"If I told you that I had a plane ticket for you to fly back home to your adopted parents, but assured you that if you did so, we would never speak or see each other again, would you go?"

My jaw locked and I bowed my head; I saw what he had done. He had taken what I wanted, the simple fact that I wanted to go home, and proved to me the real reason. It wasn't the fact that Luciano's lifestyle wasn't for me, it was the fact that I was scared. Because no, in the end, I didn't want to leave Liam, or his group of merry little friends.

"You just want to go home because you're scared," He whispers, pulling me close. "And you do care about me, and just so you know, I care about you too; a lot."

He kept me pulled snug against his chest in one of the tightest hugs I ever remember receiving. My eyes closed and the beating of his heart nearly lulled me to sleep right then and there. I felt his hands holding onto my shoulders, before he raised a palm to my head, pressing my ear against his chest. He was breathing heavily as he rested his chin on top my head and after a lengthy period of silence, I spoke up.

"Promise me something?"

"Hm?"

"You, Rico, Dominic, and William; promise me you all will make it out of this," I say softly, "Because something tells me one of you won't."

"I can't," The warmth of his chest was yanked away from me as he gripped my shoulders and pulled me back. Liam bent his knees a bit, allowing himself to come to eyelevel with me. "You know I can't promise you that."

"Liam – "

"But I can promise you this; you aren't going anywhere. If we're separated, I'll come back for you; and if something happens and I can't...?" I saw sadness creep into his eyes as he even regretted thinking of something so dire. "Know I'll always be there for you. And like I've said so many times before, I'd risk my life for you; now come here."

I felt his arms open up and I was drawn to them; we resumed the same comfortable position – my arms around his waist, his around mine and his chin rested comfortably on my head.

"Why?" My question wasn't specified; but Liam understood it immediately. I clarified anyways, "Why would you risk your life for me?"

His answer was simple and clear as day.

"Because what's a king without his queen?"

- - - -

I had a feeling today would be a bad day. By the time I woke up the next morning, the room was dark and the shades were still drawn. Despite my lack at a visual glance at the outside, I already knew it was raining – and it was raining hard.

Already knowing that Liam's spot on the bed was empty, I scrambled out of it. It was a reoccurrence that now, didn't surprise me. I was positive that Liam had more to do then lie in bed and talk about our life desires.

I brushed my teeth quickly and changed into something simple, before stepping out into the hall. Immediately, I was hit with a wave of laughter coming from Federico's room. Italian accents slipped through the crack in his door as I marched over to it, knocked, and entered at my own risk.

Liam and Rico were the first two people I spotted as I stepped inside, clearly not disrupting their conversation in the slightest. Luciano was leaning against a desk in the corner, his arms folded across his bare chest. He laughed loudly at something Federico had said, causing him to bow his head in the process.

I turned to Rico. The younger man had just fallen back on his silk sheets, laughing alongside Luciano. He, too, was shirtless and the laughter caused his chest to rise and stomach to move repeatedly. Between his lips was a lit cigarette and to his side, was what seemed to have been, a breakfast plate.

"What did I miss?"

Liam turned towards the sound of my voice almost immediately and his own smile caused mine. He held out a hand, urging me to his side and I did so; all while Federico sat up in the bed, eyeing us both with curiosity.

"We were talking about bad tattoos," Rico pulls the cigarette from between his lips, keeping it lodged in between two of his fingers. "I was thinking of getting another tattoo – "

"Of what?" This time, the bathroom door open, exposing Dominic. His hands were primping his hair; pulling and tugging at the natural curls. It was clear Dom had heard the end of Rico's explanation.

I reached Luciano's side before Rico could finish.

"I'm thinking of getting Liam's name tattooed on my dick, so whenever I jerk off I'll think of him," He says.

Luciano's laugh was the loudest and most boastful. Once he straightens himself up and the red tint fades from his cheeks, he points at Rico and with sarcasm dripping from his voice, he states, "Yeah, no, try again."

Federico shrugs and picks up a grape from his plate, before tossing it in the air and catching it in his mouth. "Well," He shrugs, "I thought it was a good idea, considering you say I forget you all the time."

Chuckles filled the room as Dominic turned to me, a soft smile on his face. "You look beautiful today." Another set of eyes bore into my temple as I shot Dom a smile in response. When I turned to my right, I saw Luciano staring at me, intently.

He lowers his voice and leans down an inch or so, whispering quietly against my head, "I was just about to say the same thing." What he does next was nearly unnoticeable, but I couldn't mistake him pressing his lips against my head for anything else. My cheeks flush and Rico, being the observant little shit that he is, noticed also.

He was staring hard at the both of us, but he kept his mouth closed, his lips pursed. He definitely had a look of question on his face and I was just anticipating his sarcastic comment or inappropriate thought that he just so happened to love to share.

I spoke up before Rico had the chance to share his most deep, inner thought. "I do have a question for the three of you." Federico snaps out of whatever gaze he was in and sits up, ears perked. Liam adjusts himself accordingly and Dom turns to me.

"Do any of you know what a shirt is?" I hadn't noticed it right off the bat, but all three of them were shirtless. The three of them glance down at the same time, as if they needed a visible reminder that their bare chests were showing; not that I, Faith Crawford, was complaining or anything.

"What?" Of course, Federico is the one to speak up first. He glances down at his chest, causing my own attention to drop with him. "Are my abs too much for you?"

I would never admit this out loud, but Rico, along with every man in the room, had a nice body. It was clear by the definition of his shoulders, pectoral muscles, and abdomen, that he spent much of his time in the gym. Yet, I couldn't resist the urge to tease him.

I scoff, "You mean your ab?"

Dom chuckles beside me, before sidling up and giving me a high five, just as Rico replies with, "Hah! You got jokes."

It wasn't until our conversation lulled dramatically for me to notice the state in which Rico's room was in. Dresser drawers were flung open and clothes were sprawled everywhere. They layered nightstands, covered the floor, and surrounded most of his guest bed. I zoned in on the desk Liam and I were leaning on, only then did I take note of the black suitcase that was thrown open. Each pocket it held contained a sharp weapon that I had never seen before.

I was preparing myself to ask my own question out of curiosity, but Luciano beat me too it with his own. "Rico, you all packed?"

"Packed?" I take a step forward and glance at all three of the men in an unsure manner. "Where's he going?"

"He's leaving us," Dom states.

"- temporarily," Federico adds as he slides off the bed.

Quickly he hops over to Dominic and throws his arms around him in a tight, warm, friendly hug. The look on Dom's face said everything; he looked uncomfortable, plain and simple. His arms were pinned at his side and his face was slowly growing an unnatural shade of purple.

Liam chuckles from my side and speaks, explaining it in a serious matter to me. I could always count on him to give me the true, non-exaggerated version of what was happening. "As long as Corinelli still thinks Rico is working for him, we have an advantage. So tonight, while we're at his house, Rico will be too." I turn and look up at Liam, nodding. "He'll be learning, memorizing the layout of the house so we can send Corinelli where he belongs; but I need you to remember something – " Liam leans down so far, his lips brush against my ear, "Rico isn't on our team tonight."

Once Rico had finally let go of Dominic and they said their goodbyes for the time being, he skipped over me and went straight to Liam. The two shared a few words before embracing quickly. The second they pulled away, Rico shimmied his way back over to me, looking sheepish.

"Yes, Rico," I answer his question before he even had the opportunity to ask. "This is where you hug." The corners of his lips twitch upwards as we both lean towards each other in a hug. It only lasted a few seconds, but when I let go of Rico's abdomen and attempted to pull myself backwards, he only held on to me tighter.

He dipped his head towards my ear and his facial hair scraped my cheek. He whispers just soft enough that only I could hear, but with a demanding tone that forced me to pay attention.

"Don't do anything stupid tonight," he says, "Corinelli would make me hurt you and I don't want to do that."

- - - -

Federico's words were still replaying over and over again in my head that early Sunday evening. I stood in front the large window in Liam's master bathroom, with him at my side. The double sinks were an amazing luxury, so while I worked on getting ready, so did he.

For not having many women in the house, I was still able to find the main amenity that I needed; a flat iron. It was heating to my right as it lay helplessly on the smooth marble counter. My hair was thrown up in ponytail and I leaned forward, eyeing the mirror closely, as I applied mascara.

"Don't say anything that could jeopardize our safety tonight, okay?"

"Psssh," I let out a laugh and lean backwards, glancing over at Liam. His tie was thrown lazily around his neck, just waiting to be tied and pulled tight around his neck. He was clean shaven and either the aftershave or the cologne he wore smelled like vanilla. I was tempted to respond sarcastically, but the expression he had on his face wasn't welcoming. "Right," I clear my throat, "Of course."

We both turn back towards the mirror at the same time, resuming whatever we had been doing before. But Liam wasn't done talking. "Rico told me what you said to him in the car earlier today." He lets out a shaky breath, "The only reason you're still alive is because Rico actually cares about you."

"I know, I learned my lesson."

Luciano was about to add to his short spiel, but the ringing of his cellphone cuts him off. He looks at the screen for a split second, before raising the phone to his ear and greeting whoever was on the other line. I keep my eyes focused on reflection in the mirror as he steps back and nods, a worried look crossing his features.

"They're arguing? Sweetheart, no, no give the phone to mom." Liam holds up a finger in my direction, the universal sign for, 'one moment', before stalking past me and out the room.

The silence that followed was peaceful. I quickly curled the few strands of hair that I could reach, before beginning to struggle mightily with the back of my head. I groaned, frustrated.

"Struggling?"

"Yes, Liam can yo – " But when I looked up and saw who's reflection was in the mirror, I paused. Dominic was leaning up against the doorframe; one corner of his lip was higher than the other. His hair was even curlier than it was this morning and the suit that he supported was much better than his previous outfit. Although it was a simple white dress shirt, black slacks, a black, skinny tie, and a suit jacket to match, he still looked good. Two diamonds pierced his ears and I bit back the urge to ask him how expensive they were. "Well look at you!" I tease as I step back, purposely checking him out.

"I know," He flips one side of his suit jacket out, causing me to laugh.

"Conceited much?"

"Never," His smile was warm and welcoming as he stepped inside, his dress shoes clicking against the tile floor. I felt his eyes rake over me from head to toe, but never once did I feel uncomfortable. "You look beautiful, Faith."

"And where are you going looking like that?" I add.

"I have a meeting this evening," He responds fluidly.

I would've turned back around to face the mirror again, assuming that our conversation was over; but when my eyes fell past his suit jacket and to his hand, I paused. For as long as I had known Dominic, I had never seen him without his wedding ring.

He wasn't wearing his ring tonight.

"Your wedding ring," I point to his finger, but his eyes don't travel to his hand. When I look up, he's still staring at me, his eyebrows beginning to connect; it was as if he didn't even know what I was talking about. "Your ring," I emphasize.

"Oh!" It clicked in his mind as he raised his hand to his face, glancing at his ringless finger. "I...must've forgot," He mumbled the last part, before shrugging.

To say that was odd would've been a major understatement, but I brushed it under the rug. I shot him a soft smile before turning back to the makeup, hair accessory covered marble. Without another word to Dom, I picked up the curling iron and attempted to curl the strands of hair in the far back of my head.

"Yeah," Dom spoke up and took a step forward, leaving just a foot of space between my back and his chest. He eases the iron out of my hand and laughs softly, "I don't see how this could end well, let me help." I froze up as I watched Dominic's eyebrows furrow and he focused on curling my hair.

"Have you ever curled hair before?"

I wince, mentally preparing myself for a burning feeling I was just certain was going to happen; but Dom pulled the iron down my hair without an incident.

"Like I said, when Rose was sick, I had to do everything for her. And no, I do not think becoming a hair stylist is in my future," He laughs gently after that.

I press my palms against the counter as my attention stayed focused on Dominic's reflection. His eyebrows continued to connect and disconnect as his level of focusing increased and decreased; the earrings he had in his ears glistened beneath the bright lights and briefly, I watched his tongue slip past his lips in a form of concentration. I smiled, and only began to laugh at this youthfulness of his features. It was hard, nearly impossible to believe that this was the same man that decapitated two of Michael Luciano's men that night.

"Can I ask you something?"

"You just did."

I ignore his sarcastic response. "How did you get involved in this?" He tears his eyes away from my hair and our gazes lock in the mirror. "This life, the mafia; the killing, the women, the drugs – you just...you don't seem like that type."

When he laughed, his lips parted completely, showing off some of the straightest, whitest teeth I had ever seen. It was brief, and in an instant, he was back to curling my hair. "I don't look like I belong in the mafia?"

"You don't act like it either," I add, "You're loyal to one woman; when I think of the mafia, I think of men sleeping with a new girl every single night; and you, I just can't see you doing that. The way you speak; you get your point across without dropping an f bomb every other word, and I've seen the rest of the household listen when you talk – you don't need to raise your voice or curse to get the attention of others."

Dominic finishes with the curling iron and sets it beside my hand, on the counter. I flip my hair and twirl in the mirror, eyebrows raised. I was seriously, without a doubt, impressed. Once I come to a complete stop, my back is pressed against the counter and I'm staring up at him.

"It's all about how you establish yourself," Dominic begins to explain, "There are dons out there that believe that the only way their family can fear them, is if they sleep with hundreds of women, do drugs, and curse repeatedly; that is simply not me."

"So," I wave a hand in the air, furthering my investigation. "How did you end up here? In the mafia..."

He takes a step backwards and throws his arms across his chest, bowing his head just the slightest. I got a glimpse of his smile before he raised his head and spoke teasingly, "Something tells me you won't let me go till you know, huh?"

"Nope! But do you blame me? You look like you belong in the most recent Calvin Klein spread, not here."

He sighs and shoots a quick look over his shoulder and out the door, before turning back to me. "Unfortunately, you're going to need more time if you want to hear my sob story. Maybe later, Ms. Faith."

I sigh, defeated. "Fine, promise?"

"Pinky."

I laugh as he takes a step forward, his pinky finger raised. We quickly fold our fingers around each other in a promise, but instead of releasing me, he pulls me even closer to him. I bump into his chest as he looks down on me.

"Be safe tonight, please." It almost sounded like he was begging; and that concerned me. I lowered the volume of my voice to match his.

"Everyone keeps saying that, I don't understand."

"You will when you get there," was his only response before he leaned down and pressed a short, friendly kiss to my cheek. He straightened himself back up properly, buttoned his suit jacket, and with a curt, respectful nod, Dominic Santiago strode out the room.

- - - -

Corinelli's home made Liam's look like a closet. His long, never-ending driveway was made of cobblestone and it was decorated to perfection with lamps lining the path, extending from the entrance of the gate, to his home.

In silence, Liam pulled the car around the driveway and pulled it in park, all while I gaped at the overwhelming size of the home sitting before me. I leaned and craned my neck upwards. My eyes couldn't spot the end of the home, the roof; it seemed to extend forever upwards. I spotted balconies, open windows, and lights and reflections of people inside the home filled my entire view. Even a low, yet clear constant stream of people talking filled my ears.

Under the dim moonlight that streamed through the windows of the car, I saw Liam turn to me, placing a hand on my leg. He shakes it gently, "Stay by my side; clear?" I nod as he presses a kiss to my cheek – and the action begins.

Luciano's door is flung open, along with mine and we both exit into the cool night air. A gentle breeze blew around my head as I looked up at the man. He was dressed in a white suit, accompanied by a black tie and vest. I thanked him, but he didn't glance down at me or smile, hardly even acknowledging my attempt at kindness. I blew out air through my nose and turned around, watching as Liam handed his car keys to the man beside him and mumbled something in Italian.

"Mr. Luciano," A deep voice with a thick accent came from behind us both, causing us to whirl around. A tall gentleman stood on top the steps of the home; his hands were interlocked behind his back and two suited gentlemen stood beside him on either side, obviously his security. He appeared to be young, around Liam's age, and his hair was slicked back with gel. A well-fitted suit hugged his frame as he descended the steps gingerly, letting his eyes fall on Liam, then me.

Recognition crossed his features when he saw me and a slow, sly smile tugged at his lips. I felt like I was under some type of scrutiny as he approached, his hand extended. The man's palms were rough as he gave my hand a good shake, "You must be Faith Crawford," I watched him lean back on his heel and tilt his head, as if he was trying to take a peek up my dress. I closed my legs, "I see why Peter is obsessed with you."

"Peter must be obsessed with me too," The man's hand was ripped from mine as Liam shoved him backwards gently, separating us. Luciano fixed his suit jacket and slipped his hand in mine as he points to me, speaking to the young man, "Because this here, is all me."

When the man laughs this time, two dimples pierce his corner lips. He raises his hand in a defensive manner, his chest open, as if suggesting to Liam that making a move on me was not part of his plans. "Relax, Luciano," He lifts a hand to the back of his neck, before rotating it around to the front of his collar. He pulls a silver chain up from his shirt and jingles the piece of jewelry that was attached to the end of it; a ring. "I just make sure I appreciate beauty when I see it. The wife wouldn't like me trying to steal your girl either." His laughter is soft as he extends a hand to Liam, "The name's Xavier."

Liam and Xavier shake hands, but the greeting grew far longer than it should have. They lock eyes and seem to glare at each other for the longest time. I clear my throat.

"Corinelli is waiting for you both," Xavier explains, "And, uh, Mr. Luciano?" Liam quirks an eyebrow, "If you really care about your woman, I'd hold on to her. We're about to enter the Lion's den." His eyes twinkle as he smirks and turns around, heading back up the steps. He jogs up the concrete steps just as one of his bodyguards opens the door, escorting all three of us inside.

The house was packed. I hadn't been to many, but in my mind, it resembled what a college party might look like. The lights were dim, but bright enough that you could see and identify every face. The music was soft, but the chatter grew increasingly louder the deeper we walked into the crowd. Bartenders poured more alcoholic drinks and servers handed them out, falling into their own little flow. Most of the people we passed by were dressed fairly neatly; men in suits, women in short, skimpy dresses.

We broke away from the pack of party goers and walked down a long, long hallway. It was wide and open and doors lined each side periodically. Two suited men stood on either side of each and every door we passed, their hands folded respectively over their abdomen; guns in their hands. I pushed myself closer to Liam and gripped his hand even harder than before. I was certain he knew why I did so; he didn't look down at me, or ask any intruding questions – he simply squeezed my hand for reassurance as we continued to follow Xavier to our destination.

The man stops in front of two double doors as his security steps to the side. He opens them both and extends his arms to the gorgeous room that lies before us. Liam and I step inside as Xavier's voice fills the quiet void, "Corinelli will be with you two shortly." The doors slam from behind us and just like this, it's only the two of us.

The outside of the house had given me a more modern feel, but now that I stopped and analyzed the small, study-like room Xavier had thrown us into, I had changed my mind. It was definitely more Victorian styled then anything. The room was large and held multiple sofas, a piano, and even a television screen. The T.V. was mounted in between a piece of furniture that resembled a fancy looking bookshelf. I circled the room on my heels in awe, before my eyes finally fell on a platter of food that rested behind one of the many sofas.

"Ooo," I made my way over to the platter, scanning the expensive looking tray. They had four different types of cheese cubes; from American to Monterey Jack. I saw red and green grapes, along with a variety of different shaped crackers – all differing in sizes. My mouth immediately watered, reminding me I hadn't eaten lunch today. When I looked up, I saw Liam smiling at me, his hands shoved in his pockets. "Don't mind if I do!" I grabbed a couple crackers, grapes, and cheese cubes and ate them quickly and surely not attractively.

Luciano's chuckle was deep, "You're cute."

I was in the midst of chewing and responding when the sound of shoes echoed down the hall outside. It was loud and grew increasingly louder the closer it came to the door. In a way, the sound was far too loud for one man to make; it was as if whoever he was with was walking in rhythm with him. I saw Liam frown too, but just before I could ask my question, the door was thrown open.

Peter Corinelli stood underneath the doorframe, his arms dangling harmlessly at his side. Like I had analyzed before, he was tall and despite his age, still fit. Since the time I had seen him at Ryan Costello's party, he had grown a couple grey hairs; yet, he still pulled off the salt and pepper look well. He was dressed to the tee, all the way down to his custom-made shoes.

He strode into the room with a no nonsense demeanor, followed by six tall and built, men. They were lined up behind him; three men standing directly behind his left shoulder, while three maintained the same formation on his right. They were all suited and their faces held little to no type of emotion. As Peter furthered his journey into the room, two men in the far back fell off, as if they had rehearsed it. The two stayed on either side of the door and assumed their silent position.

Corinelli approached me first as he made his rounds. I stood frozen beside the platter as he shoved his hand in my face, a sly smile pulled at his lips. His eyes were dark, matching that soul of his, yet, by just a glance, you could tell that Peter had seen things; he was much older than Liam, more mature, he had more experience – and that alone, frightened me. I left his hand hanging for the longest time. I glanced at it, him, then back again.

"You're a quiet one," He notices out loud. My heart beats heavily against my chest as he leans down, "What are you afraid of, Faith?"

That was a good question; murderers, liars, anything that is classified as a bug.

I was afraid of Peter Corinelli yes, but I knew that was the answer he was striving for and I refused to give it to him. I pursed my lipstick covered lips together and with twinkling eyes, I smile with closed lips.

He glances over his shoulder at the man closest to his left and as he does, so do I.

It was Rico.

The hazel eyes were hard to miss and I simply hadn't noticed him because I hadn't looked his way the entire time. If it were any different circumstance, I would've probably squealed at the sight of him in a suit. The closer and harder I looked, the more I noticed a couple light, very faded scars on his cheek. My mouth fell open, but I closed it immediately when I remembered Liam's words from earlier.

Rico isn't on our team tonight.

Peter, Rico, and the three other men working security detail brushed past me, leaving me drowning in waves of expensive smelling cologne and aftershave. The smell was strong and I scrunched up my nose in disgust as I held my breath.

"Liam," Corinelli greets as they shake hands, "I'm glad you and Ms. Crawford were able to join me. Please," The older man points towards one sofa, "Sit." Cautiously, I round the platter, but not before grabbing another grape.

I join Liam on the sofa as Peter, Rico, and another man closest to Corinelli drop to the sofa facing us. Peter mumbles something in Italian, allowing the remaining two men to leave the room altogether. "I don't think I needed that much security, right?" He laughs as he addresses the room.

I watch and sit in uncomfortable silence as Peter leans forward, just as his security details lean back. The man folds his hands together and turns to Liam, speaking loudly, "I say we get right down to business, yes?"

Liam's reply was short, sweet, and to the point. "I'm all ears."

"Great," Peter claps, "I want the girl."

Luciano leans forward also, obtaining the same hands folded position Peter was, "Read my lips," He states slowly, "I will not give Faith to you nor can you take her from me."

Corinelli leans so far off his seat he nearly falls off, "Liam, tell me this, what is she—" I cringe at the word used to talk about me; the tone in which it exits Peters mouth causes my chest to tighten, "—giving you?"

I felt every pair of eyes on me after Peter worded his question; even Liam's. He pulled his lips into his mouth as he thought and truthfully, I was scared of his answer. "Something you'll never have," was Liam safe, but sure response. I approved of the answer.

"Stress?" Peter emphasizes as he leans back a little, "Don't pretend like I don't know you, Luciano. Your life was free of any unnecessary burdens; then she waltzed along, am I right? You've had to neglect your company for this woman, yet, you still won't just let her go?"

Liam shifts in his seat, but doesn't respond verbally.

"Liam," Peter breathes out a laugh, "I'm attempting to be civil and hold a pleasant conversation; you're making it quite hard."

"I apologize," Liam mutters, "I just figured you would attempt to do the negotiating; but from what I can tell, you don't have any negotiating tool. All you've done is question Faith's purpose and quite honestly, that has nothing to do with you," His voice rose as Liam pulled himself to his feet, adjusting his suit and tie. "So if you have nothing else to say to me, I suggest you continue to make attempts on my life and the lives of my men – because in the end, not only will you fail, but I'll also be there to make sure you lose everything."

Liam yanked me too my feet viciously, but I knew he hadn't done it on purpose. I regain my balance as I'm practically dragged towards the exit of the room. The closer we got towards the door, the closer and closer the men guarding the door pressed together, hands on their guns. They blocked the exit.

"You're just going to walk out of my meeting?" Peter Corinelli was standing by the time I turned back around to face him; Liam had yet to give him the satisfaction of knowing he, too, was listening. Rico and the other man stand, still quiet. Peter takes another step forward, speaking to Luciano's back, "You're a pussy."

"You are what you eat."

Rico smiled from behind Peter, but never separating in a wide smile. His hazel eyes grew lighter underneath the light and it was great to see a change of expression at Liam's sarcastic response.

I hesitated when Liam began his journey towards the door, clearly done with the meeting Peter had tried to hold. For a couple silent minutes Luciano stood in front the two security guards, who did not seem interesting in letting us pass. Liam tilts his head and sighs, "Gentlemen, please-"

"Luciano," Peter speaks up once again and steps around one of his men, not completely closing the gap that resides between him and Liam. "You can go," He says, giving us permission, "But-" His jaw locks, "Let me make something utterly clear to you."

Corinelli takes another step.

"If you walk out that door, with Faith Crawford on your arm, I will not stop. I will harass you and your family, I will threaten you and everyone you care about; I will make your life living hell." I focused in on the veins that ran down Peter's neck, watching as they constricted and pressed against his skin; standing out. Peter points an accusing finger at Liam, "Alex's head will not be the last one you receive; and I'll start with your damn pretty boy Consigliere." His nostrils flare as he tilts his head to the side, "I will rip every curly strand of hair out of his body; I will beat him till you won't even recognize his goddamn face."

I took a step back, suddenly feeling not so steady on my feet. Liam didn't squint or turn around as Peter took a final step towards him and stopped.

"Every man that works for you in that house of yours will be hunted down, one by one. But before I do that," Peter lowers his voice in a whisper, "I'll take her."

Liam turns to me.

"Not her," Peter shakes his head, correcting Liam's initial assumption. "Her." He points at Liam's chest, "Your pride and joy, your heart; Rosalie." Luciano's attention flickers upward towards Peter's face at the mention of his younger sister. "And then I'll take your mother-"

Liam speaks through gritted teeth, "Melanie Luciano is not my mother."

"But she's hers," Peter simplifies. "I will make you watch me kill all of them. Every, single, last one and as if that wasn't enough, I will take everything you have ever worked for Liam. Everything you have strived on – that entire goddamn company. I'll take it all," He chuckles, "Is she really worth all of that?"

I had assumed the question was thrown out there for Liam to answer, but he didn't. He shot daggers at Peter before grabbing my hand roughly and dragging me past the security guards and out the door. But before the doors closed back, I caught a glimpse of Federico's face. He had been silent the entire evening, his job simple – the look he shot the back of Peter's head could've stopped anyone's heart mid-beat. It was a look of pure evil, something satanic; but for the first time, I wasn't afraid of the fact that I couldn't recognize the man behind those hazel eyes. I quietly hoped and prayed that he ended Peter Corinelli's life right then and there; killing the man in such a gruesome way that even the media couldn't explain it on national television.

I heard Peter's voice again, just seconds before the doors clicked shut. "Is she really worth all of that?!" He spoke in a teasing manner and ended his statement with a cold hearted laugh. It was an evil laugh that chilled your bones and stalled your breathing out of fright.

The cold night air slapped me back into reality as it whipped across my face, bringing me right back to the present. Liam continued to yank on my arm. I silently shot up a prayer of thanks as I made it down the concrete steps without breaking anything. Luciano let go of our hands as his car pulls up to the front with perfect timing. A man gets out, tosses Luciano the keys, bids us goodbye, and leaves.

I stood near the right back tire of the exotic car awkwardly, my hands folded across my stomach. "Liam," The wind continued to blow as he opened his car door and looked up. His eyes were red and glazed over with emotion and unfallen tears. "Liam, I'm not worth all of that."

He stood up straight and threw a lazy forearm on top of the cars roof, leaning most of his body weight on the vehicle. "Faith, get in the damn car."

Tears pricked my own eyes as I brought a hand up to its corner, gently wiping them away before they fell. "Liam, your family; everything you worked for – he threatened everyone-"

"Get in the car."

"As much as I hate this man, I'd stay with him if that meant you and Rosie and Melanie and Dominic and William and Rico were safe." My bottom lip shook and I knew I was done for. Out of habit, I stuck my thumb between my teeth and bowed my head as the tears fell freely. I heard a door slam in the distance and seconds later, I felt myself being wrapped up in someone's arms.

"Someone is going to die," Liam pulls me close and dips his head towards my ear, mumbling words that only broke my heart more. I squeezed my eyes shut and pulled him closer, crying against the fabric of his suit jacket. "Whether you go with Corinelli or not; somebody I love will die." Luciano pulls my head away from his chest and places his palms against my cheeks. "There is nothing I can do to stop it," The first tear that fell from Liam came from his right eye, "If you go with him Faith, you'll die. If you don't, it'll be someone else – and everyone he mentioned, I love."

Liam continues, "I don't know who and I don't know how; but I know, he will."

We embraced for the longest time, but I heard Luciano whisper one last thing in my ear before pulling away and heading towards the car, wiping at his tear stained cheeks. I followed in the same manner and got in the car. We buckled our seatbelts in painful silence and the second Liam switched the car into drive, we were gone. But I couldn't help but replay the last couple of pained statements Liam had whispered during our conversation.

Someone I love will die.

I leaned the car seat back as I tried to stop the tears from falling.

I don't know who and I don't know how.

I squeezed my eyes closed.

And it pains me to know, that there is a possibility I won't be able to do a goddamn thing to stop it.

But the tears still fell.

- - - -

A/N:

So after a million years (almost two months) I'm back! I'm seriously so so so so so sorry for the incredibly long wait. School has been so stressful and I honestly have no time to write.

I hope you all enjoyed the chapter and I apologize for any grammatical errors! This chapter was almost impossible to finish because I kept losing motivation and kept running into Writers block.

FAQ:

Will Luciano have a sequel? : "I can neither confirm nor deny that statement" – Liam Luciano

When will you update? : WARNING: IF YOU HAVE PRIVATE MESSAGED ME 10+ TIMES ASKING THIS QUESTION, EVEN AFTER I ANSWERED YOU THE FIRST 5 TIMES, I WILL PROBABLY DELETE YOUR MESSAGE THREAD.

{march 23, '16 – do not an update any time soon. school ends for me on May 12th. so if I don't update till around that date, just understand that I'm busy with school. Love you all!}