53. Luna
CHAPTER FIFTY-THREE
LUNA
I stare at my reflection, watching the way the gown clings to me and how the deep emerald green brings out the gold in my eyes. Tonight, I’m a woman stepping back into the world on my own terms.
I run my fingers over the diamond bracelet on my wrist, a gift from Nico. Tonight isn’t just about appearances. It’s about taking control.
The door clicks open behind me, and I feel his presence before I turn.
Nico doesn’t speak; he watches me and takes me in like he’s committing something important to memory.
When he finds his voice, it’s rougher than usual. “You’re glowing.”
I swallow the words, hitting deeper than I care to admit. In a few short strides, his fingertips graze my bare shoulder.
“I don’t know if it’s the freedom or the child, but either way, it suits you.” A breath catches in my throat.
“I didn’t realize you paid attention to things like that.” He lets out a soft chuckle.
“I notice everything when it comes to you, amore .”
I’m too shocked to reply, so when he gives me his arm, I take it. Then I hold my head high as we walk down the stairs, and I finally get my first taste of freedom after all this time.
The city rushes past in streaks of light—too fast, too bright, like I’m watching it all from the outside.
I keep my eyes on the window, on the blur, on the steady hum of the engine.
It’s easier than thinking about how long it’s been.
How much of myself I’ve had to lock away just to survive.
Nico sits beside me, one hand resting on his thigh and the other curling around a whiskey glass. He hasn’t said much since we left.
“Are you nervous?” His raspy voice cuts through the stillness.
“Should I be?” I ask, but his question just spiked my anxiety.
“Not at all, but they’ll want you to be.”
His words unnerve me. It’s a reminder that this night isn’t just about appearances, it’s about alliances.
“Then I won’t be.” Something darkens his gaze. An instant later, his hand captures mine.
“Stay by my side.” It’s not a request, it’s a command. “No matter what.” I curl my fingers around his.
“Always.” Nico would never admit that he’s anxious, but I feel it rolling off him like waves.
The car slows, but it doesn’t ease the tension in my chest. It’s not fear. It’s knowing what happens next will solidify our future. Mateo opens the door, and Nico steps out first. Then, slowly, he turns, extending his hand. I take it. With his hand on the small of my back, we climb the stairs.
And the moment we step inside the gala, the atmosphere transforms. The drone of quiet conversations disappears, and all I can focus on is the glint of diamonds, tailored suits, and everyone’s eyes watching us.
I expected it. I also had a few days to prepare for it.
But what I wasn’t ready for was him .
The realization hits me hard. Across the room, standing among men who have built their fortunes alongside him, is my father.
Intact. Unwavering. Still reigning.
My breath tightens in my chest, but I force it down, refusing to let the moment consume me. Nico notices immediately, and his arm wraps around my waist.
At the same time, Mateo flanks my other side. He leans in, his voice just low enough for me to hear. “You knew this was possible.”
My eyes are locked on the man who orchestrated my past, who still believes he controls my future. And who was responsible for almost killing my husband. “Knowing doesn’t make it easier.” I haven’t seen this man since he dropped me off like a lamb to slaughter. A moment passes before Nico speaks.
“You’re not the naive young woman he dropped off all those years ago, Luna . You’re brave, and the strongest woman I know.” I allow his words to take root, and I lift my chin, step further into the room, and I don’t stop. Nico’s grip tightens, a warning that I blatantly ignore.
I weave through the guests who pretend not to notice but are watching my every move. And then, I stand right in front of him. With my husband at my side and Mateo, a silent shadow on my left.
This is not just a daughter confronting her father.
This is a declaration of war.
My father’s gaze bounces between the three of us, measuring the threat, calculating. “Interesting.”
“You expected Luna to face you alone.” My father smiles.
“She’s a clever girl. I assumed she’d realize that some battles are meant to be fought without an audience.” I straighten, refusing to let his words penetrate.
“And I assumed you’d realize that I’m done playing by your rules, Mister D’Angelo.” Mateo watches the exchange with mild amusement.
“She’s a quick learner.” Mateo taunts, while my father processes the fact that I haven’t arrived defenseless.
But I don’t need him to say anything.
Because I’ve already won this round.