After My Divorce I Became the Godfather's Wife | Part 2 (Ending) - video Dailymotion

Artificially Attached

Nora's bond with Luca and Leo deepens as she rebuilds her career and her sense of self. From rock bottom to a life she never dared imagine, this is the conclusion of Nora's story.  Part 2 of 2.   #fullepisode #part2 #dramaseries #mafiaromance #reallove #secondchances

Transcript

00:00:00My face went completely cold, Ms. Carter. Speak with actual proof.

00:00:03Ms. Carter, speak with actual proof.

00:00:05Two kids fight and you don't even ask why?

00:00:08You punish only my son and insult him personally?

00:00:11Is this your standard as a teacher?

00:00:13My voice was quiet but firm.

00:00:15Standards?

00:00:16Victoria sneered.

00:00:17You don't get to talk about standards.

00:00:19With her arms crossed, she walked over and looked down at me.

00:00:21I suggest you be smart about this.

00:00:23Get on your knees, apologize to my son, and pay $100,000 for emotional distress.

00:00:27Then we can put this behind us.

00:00:28Otherwise, don't blame me for being ruthless.

00:00:32I almost laughed.

00:00:33Get on my knees?

00:00:35Keep dreaming.

00:00:36Victoria raised a brow and pulled out her phone, waving it in front of me.

00:00:40Dreaming?

00:00:41Do you know who my husband is?

00:00:42He's the underboss of the Rizzo family, the biggest mafia outfit in Jersey City.

00:00:46He calls all the shots in the city's underground business.

00:00:48One call from me, and you won't be able to stay in Jersey City.

00:00:51You'll even lose your pathetic job.

00:00:53That's right, Leo's mother.

00:00:54Mrs. Rizzo's husband is a very powerful man.

00:00:56You can't afford to offend him.

00:00:57Just apologize, get on your knees, and make this go away.

00:01:00Otherwise, you and your son will pay the price.

00:01:02The Rizzo family?

00:01:02Just a fringe branch under Luca's thumb.

00:01:04Even the head of the Rizzo family would have to bow his head to Luca.

00:01:07I almost laughed to myself.

00:01:09Before I could say anything, Jacob suddenly rushed at Leo and shoved him hard.

00:01:12Thud.

00:01:13Caught off guard.

00:01:14Leo stumbled.

00:01:14His back slammed hard into the doorframe.

00:01:16Jacob planted his hands on his hips and yelled smugly,

00:01:19Bastard.

00:01:20My dad is the boss.

00:01:22Hit me again, and my dad will feed you and your mom to the fishes.

00:01:25I immediately pulled Leo behind me and shielded him with my body.

00:01:28Jacob, don't you dare raise your voice at my son.

00:01:31Victoria stepped in front of Jacob and swung at my face.

00:01:33You think you can yell at my son, you bitch?

00:01:35You must have a death wish.

00:01:37I caught her wrist before her hand could land.

00:01:40You want to hit me?

00:01:41You're trying to assault someone in a school office, Victoria?

00:01:44You've got some nerve.

00:01:45So what if I hit you?

00:01:46Victoria tried to yank her hand free, but she couldn't.

00:01:49I won't just hit you.

00:01:50I'll run you out of Jersey City.

00:01:52Miss Carter, you saw that, right?

00:01:53This crazy woman taught her son violence, and now she's assaulting me.

00:01:57Call the police.

00:01:57Get her arrested.

00:01:58Miss Bennett, you've gone too far.

00:02:01Let go of Mrs. Rizzo right now.

00:02:03I'm warning you.

00:02:04If you keep causing trouble, I'll expel your son this minute.

00:02:08He'll be banned from every school in Jersey City.

00:02:10I almost laughed from sheer disbelief.

00:02:12I'm causing trouble?

00:02:14You didn't see her son shove Leo?

00:02:15You didn't see her try to slap me, so everything is suddenly our fault?

00:02:18With Victoria backing her up, Miss Carter puffed out her chest.

00:02:20It is your fault.

00:02:22Get on your knees and apologize now, or neither of you is leaving this room.

00:02:25Good.

00:02:26Very good.

00:02:27I let go of her wrist and slowly rubbed the spot she had gripped.

00:02:30My eyes went cold.

00:02:31Victoria rubbed her wrist and glared at me viciously.

00:02:34So you really don't know when to quit?

00:02:35Fine.

00:02:36I'm calling my husband right now.

00:02:38Let's see how long you can keep acting tough.

00:02:39She dialed his number, instantly switching to a sweet voice.

00:02:42Babe, get to the school right now.

00:02:44Someone bullied our son.

00:02:45That woman hit me, too.

00:02:47Yeah, just some single mom.

00:02:49She's incredibly arrogant.

00:02:50Claim she's not afraid of you.

00:02:52Hurry over, babe.

00:02:53I'm totally humiliated.

00:02:54After hanging up, Victoria looked at me smugly.

00:02:57Just wait.

00:02:57My husband will be here in ten minutes.

00:02:59Then I'll make you beg me on your knees.

00:03:01Miss Carter immediately fawned over her.

00:03:03Mrs. Russo, we're honored your busy husband is coming.

00:03:06Once he's here, we'll make her apologize properly.

00:03:08Then she turned on Leo again.

00:03:10And you.

00:03:11Just wait until Jacob's father gets here.

00:03:13Let's see you talk tough then.

00:03:15Oh, wait.

00:03:16You don't even have a father.

00:03:17How pathetic.

00:03:18Leo's little face turned red with anger.

00:03:20He balled his fists and started forward.

00:03:22But I caught him right away.

00:03:23Don't.

00:03:24I lowered my voice for Leo.

00:03:25Mommy's here.

00:03:26I had been holding my anger in for too long.

00:03:28I hadn't wanted to reveal who I was.

00:03:30I just wanted to reason with them.

00:03:31But Victoria and her son had gone too far.

00:03:33They wouldn't even spare a child.

00:03:35Ten minutes later, the office door was kicked open.

00:03:37A burly, floral-shirted thug strode in with two henchmen.

00:03:41He looked like trouble.

00:03:42Who the hell messed with my wife and son?

00:03:44The man's voice boomed through the room.

00:03:46The moment he walked in, he swept the office with a furious glare.

00:03:49Victoria rushed over and clung to his arm.

00:03:51Her tears came instantly.

00:03:53Honey, you're here.

00:03:54It was her.

00:03:55Her son hit Jacob and then she hit me too.

00:03:58You have to stand up for us.

00:03:59This was Tony Rizzo, the underboss of the Rizzo family.

00:04:02He controlled most of Jersey City's underground casinos and entertainment venues.

00:04:06Around here, he was considered someone important.

00:04:09He followed Victoria's pointing finger to me.

00:04:11He looked me over from head to toe.

00:04:13I was dressed in an ordinary business suit, with only a child at my side.

00:04:17Contempt filled his face.

00:04:19Just you?

00:04:20Tony sneered, strutting over, arms crossed.

00:04:22A woman and her kid.

00:04:24You think you can mess with Tony Rizzo's wife and son?

00:04:27You got a death wish?

00:04:28You should ask your son what he said first.

00:04:30I met his gaze calmly.

00:04:32Your son was the one who got physical.

00:04:34He started this.

00:04:36Everything my son says is right!

00:04:38Tony was utterly overbearing.

00:04:40I don't care why it happened.

00:04:41You hit my son, pay the price.

00:04:44He pointed at the floor.

00:04:45Get on your knees and apologize to my wife and son.

00:04:49Beg them to forgive you.

00:04:50Then pay $500,000 for emotional distress and we'll call it even.

00:04:55Otherwise, you'll lose your job and you won't be able to stay in Jersey City.

00:05:00Miss Carter quickly chimed in.

00:05:01Exactly!

00:05:02Mr. Rizzo has spoken.

00:05:04Apologize now.

00:05:05Don't push your luck.

00:05:06I didn't budge.

00:05:07You want me to kneel?

00:05:09I looked at him, a trace of mockery in my eyes.

00:05:12You sure?

00:05:13What?

00:05:14Still refusing?

00:05:15Tony's face darkened.

00:05:16He gave the men behind him a look.

00:05:18They immediately stepped forward, glaring at me with threatening expressions.

00:05:22Listen carefully.

00:05:24In Jersey City, no one dares disrespect Tony Rizzo.

00:05:27Tony gave a cold smile.

00:05:30You won't kneel?

00:05:31Fine.

00:05:32He suddenly reached out, grabbed Leo by the arm, and yanked him to his side.

00:05:37Mommy!

00:05:39Leo flinched and struggled.

00:05:41Leo!

00:05:42My face changed instantly.

00:05:44Let him go.

00:05:46Let him go?

00:05:47Tony gripped Leo's arm, looking pleased with himself.

00:05:51Are you going to kneel or not?

00:05:53If you don't, I won't be so nice to your son.

00:05:56Kids are fragile.

00:05:57It would be a shame if he fell and broke an arm or a leg.

00:06:00Don't you dare!

00:06:01My voice went cold.

00:06:03Tony tightened his grip.

00:06:04You think I won't?

00:06:05Leo's small face went pale with pain, but he clenched his teeth and refused to cry.

00:06:09Honey, stop wasting time on her.

00:06:12She's so protective of her son, isn't she?

00:06:15Let's see if she'll kneel.

00:06:16If she won't, break that little bastard's leg.

00:06:20Miss Carter stood off to the side, her head lowered as she pretended not to see a thing.

00:06:25She didn't dare stop them or say a word.

00:06:27My chest tightened as I watched Leo's face go pale with pain.

00:06:30I didn't fear Tony, only that Leo would get hurt.

00:06:33Fine.

00:06:34I'll kneel.

00:06:35Mommy, don't!

00:06:36I don't want you to kneel!

00:06:38Leo cried anxiously.

00:06:39I'm not afraid of him!

00:06:41It's okay, sweetheart.

00:06:42I looked at my son apologetically, slowly.

00:06:44I bent my knees, getting closer and closer to the floor.

00:06:47Tony and Victoria exchanged a smug look.

00:06:49Victoria lifted her chin.

00:06:51See?

00:06:51Should have done this from the start.

00:06:54Always have to learn the hard way.

00:06:56I straightened back up.

00:06:58I knelt.

00:06:59Give me back my son.

00:07:00But they had no intention of keeping their word.

00:07:03You knelt.

00:07:04What about your son?

00:07:07You've gone too far.

00:07:09I pulled my phone from my pocket.

00:07:10Tony frowned.

00:07:11What are you doing?

00:07:12Trying to pull something?

00:07:13Pull something?

00:07:14You want to play games?

00:07:16I gave a cold laugh and tapped the call button.

00:07:18Fine.

00:07:19I'll see this through.

00:07:21Let's see who ends up paying for this today.

00:07:23The call went through.

00:07:24It rang only once before someone answered, though a trace of hurt slipped through.

00:07:29Luca.

00:07:30My voice was calm.

00:07:31Someone forced me to kneel.

00:07:32They're trying to expel Leo, too.

00:07:34Wait for me.

00:07:35The call ended, and the office fell silent for a few seconds.

00:07:39Tony paused for a moment, then threw his head back and laughed.

00:07:42He pointed at me.

00:07:43Who are you scaring?

00:07:45Think name dropping scares me?

00:07:47Listen, in Jersey, I, Tony Rizzo, am the law.

00:07:50Victoria started laughing, too, covering her mouth mockingly.

00:07:54Luca?

00:07:55You don't mean the legendary CEO of our company, Luca Castellano, do you?

00:07:59That's right.

00:08:04Nora, who are you kidding?

00:08:05You?

00:08:06No Mr. Castellano?

00:08:08Miss Carter visibly relaxed and joined in.

00:08:10I thought you'd called someone important.

00:08:13So this was all just an act.

00:08:17Do you have any idea who Mr. Castellano is?

00:08:21How could he possibly be your husband?

00:08:24This is ridiculous.

00:08:26The three of them piled on, laughing without restraint.

00:08:28To them, I was just an ordinary single mother.

00:08:31Maybe I had been clever enough to get into Meridian,

00:08:33but there was no way I could be connected to the all-powerful Castellano family.

00:08:38Hearing them laugh at his dad,

00:08:39Leo puffed out his little chest and shouted,

00:08:41Don't laugh!

00:08:42Luca's my dad.

00:08:43He's really powerful.

00:08:45You'll be sorry when he gets here.

00:08:47Oh, the little bastard can lie, too.

00:08:50If your dad is Luca Castellini, then my husband is the president.

00:08:53You're just like your mother.

00:08:55Nothing but lies.

00:08:57Don't touch me!

00:08:59Enough.

00:09:00Stop wasting time.

00:09:02Since no one's coming, stay on your knees.

00:09:03Nobody leaves until I'm satisfied.

00:09:05I'll give you one last chance.

00:09:07Kneel.

00:09:08Or don't.

00:09:08Your choice.

00:09:09I stared at him coldly and said nothing.

00:09:11I knew how fast Luca could get here, from Cavan Point Peninsula.

00:09:15It would take him no more than 15 minutes to reach the school.

00:09:18I just had to hold out until he arrived, but Tony clearly had no patience left.

00:09:22Fine.

00:09:22When he saw I wouldn't give in, he finally snapped.

00:09:25You won't kneel?

00:09:27Go get me a pair of scissors.

00:09:28The man immediately left the office.

00:09:32Less than 30 seconds later, he came back from the administration office with a sharp

00:09:36pair of craft scissors.

00:09:38Tony took them and snipped them twice in the air.

00:09:40The blades flashed coldly.

00:09:42You don't want to kneel?

00:09:43Fine.

00:09:44Tony walked over to Leo and used the scissors to lift a lock of his hair.

00:09:47Kid's got nice hair.

00:09:50Don't kneel?

00:09:52I'll snip him completely bald for school.

00:09:55Think the other kids will laugh at him?

00:09:58You wouldn't dare.

00:09:59I rushed to pull Leo away, but two of Tony's men blocked me.

00:10:03Mommy!

00:10:03Leo was scared, but he clenched his teeth and refused to cry.

00:10:06He lifted his chin and glared at Tony.

00:10:08Go ahead.

00:10:09I'm not scared of you.

00:10:13Oh, you're a tough little kid.

00:10:16Let's see how long you can keep talking tough.

00:10:19Or if my scissors change your mind.

00:10:22Honey, stop wasting time on her.

00:10:24If she won't kneel, cut it.

00:10:27Let's see if she still acts tough.

00:10:28Miss Carter stood trembling in the corner.

00:10:30She didn't dare say a word.

00:10:32As the scissors drew closer to Leo, my heart leaped into my throat.

00:10:35Stop!

00:10:36I'll kneel.

00:10:37I'll apologize.

00:10:38Let my son go.

00:10:39My voice shook with rage, fists clenching white.

00:10:42See?

00:10:43You could have saved yourself the trouble.

00:10:45Kneeling isn't enough.

00:10:47Tony smiled smugly and lowered the scissors.

00:10:50You upset my wife earlier.

00:10:51So here's the deal.

00:10:52Crawl over here, lick my shoes clean, then beggar to forgive you.

00:10:55Then I'll let your son go.

00:10:56Don't push this too far!

00:10:58Too far?

00:10:59I can take it a lot further.

00:11:01You choose.

00:11:02Lick my shoes or watch your son go bald.

00:11:05He raised the scissors again, poised to snip.

00:11:07Mommy, don't!

00:11:08Leo stood straight.

00:11:10Let him cut it all off!

00:11:11It'll grow back!

00:11:13Mommy, you can't bow to him!

00:11:16Never!

00:11:16Leo's voice wasn't loud, but every word was clear.

00:11:19I looked at Leo's determined face, my heart aching and warming at once.

00:11:23My little man already knew how to protect his mommy, but I couldn't let Leo suffer this

00:11:26kind of humiliation.

00:11:27I took a deep breath and slowly bent down.

00:11:30My gaze fell on Tony's polished leather shoes and my stomach churned.

00:11:33A tide of humiliation washed over me, nearly drowning me.

00:11:36My face was only inches from one of his shoes.

00:11:40The office door was kicked open from the outside.

00:11:43You're begging for death.

00:11:46Boss!

00:11:49Everyone spun around, several bodyguards in black suits stood at the door, their presence

00:11:53imposing.

00:11:53At their center stood a man in a tailored black coat.

00:11:56His face was cold and stern.

00:11:57Terrifying rage swirled in his eyes.

00:11:59Just standing there, he made the room feel suffocating.

00:12:01It was Luca.

00:12:02He had arrived faster than I expected.

00:12:04A team of security personnel stood behind him.

00:12:06He looked like he'd stepped out of the cold itself.

00:12:08Tony's smile froze.

00:12:10He stared at the man in the doorway, his eyes widening as the color slowly drained from

00:12:13his face.

00:12:14His arrogance gave way to disbelief, then sheer terror.

00:12:17Boss!

00:12:17Tony's voice trembled.

00:12:19His legs gave out, and he dropped to his knees with a thud.

00:12:21The scissors slipped from his hand and clattered onto the floor.

00:12:24The entire office went silent.

00:12:26Victoria's sneer froze as her fearless.

00:12:28Husband dropped to his knees, stammering, Boss!

00:12:30Her mind went blank.

00:12:31Miss Carter froze in place.

00:12:33The pen slipped from her hand and fell to the floor.

00:12:35Luca didn't look at Tony kneeling on the ground.

00:12:37His eyes swept across the room before finally landing on me.

00:12:40When he saw my red-rimmed eyes and the tissue in Leo's nose,

00:12:43the air around him seemed to turn even colder.

00:12:46He strode over, helped me to my feet, then pulled Leo to his side and shielded him behind

00:12:50him.

00:12:50Luca's voice softened, a stark contrast to his earlier icy tone.

00:12:54It's okay now.

00:12:55Leaning into Luca, my forced composure finally shattered.

00:12:58My nose stung.

00:12:59Leo immediately wrapped his arms around Luca's leg.

00:13:02Daddy!

00:13:03It's okay, Leo.

00:13:04Daddy's here.

00:13:05Luca stroked Leo's head, but his eyes grew colder.

00:13:08Then he looked up at Tony, who was trembling on his knees.

00:13:10His voice was ice cold.

00:13:12Tony Rizzo, forcing my wife to kneel on my turf, touching my son.

00:13:17Boss, I'm sorry.

00:13:18I didn't know they were your family.

00:13:19I was blind.

00:13:21I'm an idiot.

00:13:22Please, give me one more chance.

00:13:24Tony was terrified.

00:13:25He kept groveling at Luca's feet.

00:13:27I was blind.

00:13:27He was truly scared.

00:13:29Who was Luca Castellano, the don of the New York Mafia, the king of the entire East Coast

00:13:33underworld?

00:13:34Tony was only the underboss of a peripheral branch.

00:13:37To Luca, Tony was nothing.

00:13:38Victoria stood nearby, trembling all over.

00:13:41She stared at the scene before her, stunned.

00:13:43The quiet, simply-dressed new hire at the company, the one whose credit Victoria had stolen

00:13:48several times, was really the legendary Mrs. Castellano.

00:13:52At the thought of what she'd done to me at work, and what she'd just said, Victoria's

00:13:55legs went weak.

00:13:56She nearly sank to her knees, too.

00:13:58No.

00:13:59That's impossible.

00:14:00Victoria muttered under her breath.

00:14:02How could she be Mrs. Castellano?

00:14:04She drives such an ordinary car.

00:14:07She takes the subway to work every day.

00:14:09Luca gave her a cold look, sharp as a knife.

00:14:11She fell silent at once.

00:14:13Ignoring the terrified couple, Luca looked down, his voice softening.

00:14:17Tell me what happened.

00:14:18I took a deep breath and told him everything from the beginning.

00:14:21Jacob called Leo a bastard.

00:14:23The boys got into a fight.

00:14:25Without first finding out what happened, Miss Carter made Leo stand in the corner.

00:14:29Victoria twisted the truth.

00:14:31Then Tony came in.

00:14:32He used Leo to threaten me, forced me to kneel, and threatened to cut his hair with scissors.

00:14:37I spoke calmly, but Luca's expression darkened with every word.

00:14:41Daddy, he called Mommy a woman no one wants.

00:14:45Leo added.

00:14:46That's why I pushed him.

00:14:48Luca was silent for a few seconds after hearing that.

00:14:51Then he reached out and gently wiped the blood from beside Leo's nose.

00:14:55His fingers were cold.

00:14:57Good boy.

00:14:58Luca looked at his son.

00:14:59His voice steady.

00:15:01Someone insults Mom.

00:15:02You teach them a lesson.

00:15:04I told you a man protects his mother.

00:15:06You did.

00:15:07Leo's eyes lit up, and he nodded hard.

00:15:10Luca stood and turned to Miss Carter.

00:15:12She had already gone pale, huddled in the corner, and shaking.

00:15:15You're his teacher.

00:15:17Two kids get into a fight, and you don't even ask what happened.

00:15:21Instead, you punish only my son and insult him, too.

00:15:25Who gave you the nerve?

00:15:27I, I, Victoria said, she said her husband was a big shot.

00:15:32I, so you decided to suck up to her and twist the facts?

00:15:35Luca let out a cold laugh and pulled out his phone.

00:15:38Principal here.

00:15:40Now.

00:15:41Immediately.

00:15:42Call ended.

00:15:43Tony kept groveling on the floor.

00:15:44Boss, I know I was wrong.

00:15:46I'll never do it again.

00:15:49Please, give me one more chance.

00:15:51Tony was sobbing so hard he could barely get the words out.

00:15:54Please, boss.

00:15:55I have a family to take care of.

00:15:57Please, have mercy.

00:16:00Mercy?

00:16:01Luca looked down at him without a trace of warmth in his eyes.

00:16:03When holding scissors to my son, did you think of mercy?

00:16:08When forcing my wife to lick your shoes, did you think of today?

00:16:11He tipped his chin toward the bodyguards behind him.

00:16:13Two bodyguards immediately stepped forward and hauled Tony up.

00:16:16Freeze all of the Ricco family's assets.

00:16:18Luca's tone was flat.

00:16:20Tony overstepped.

00:16:21Break one of his hands.

00:16:23Throw him out of Jersey City.

00:16:24He is never to set foot on Castellano territory again.

00:16:26No, boss, please.

00:16:28Average.

00:16:29Tony was terrified.

00:16:31He struggled desperately, but the bodyguards held him down.

00:16:34Victoria screamed.

00:16:35Let go of my husband!

00:16:37She tried to rush toward him, but a bodyguard shoved her aside.

00:16:40She hit the floor hard.

00:16:42Luca looked at her coldly.

00:16:43Don't worry.

00:16:45You're next.

00:16:46Tony was dragged out, his screams slowly fading down the hall.

00:16:49The office was dead silent.

00:16:51You could hear every breath.

00:16:53Victoria slumped on the floor, her face drained of all color.

00:16:56She knew she was finished.

00:16:57I stood beside Luca and watched it all without feeling anything.

00:17:00They had brought this on themselves.

00:17:01If they'd been reasonable, they wouldn't end up here.

00:17:04I just hadn't expected Luca to arrive so fast, shielding us so fiercely.

00:17:08After dealing with Tony, Luca turned his attention to Victoria.

00:17:12You work for the Meridian Jersey City branch.

00:17:14Luca's tone was calm, but it sounded like a death sentence.

00:17:18You repeatedly passed off your co-workers' work as your own.

00:17:21You spread rumors and stirred up trouble.

00:17:25You let your son bully others.

00:17:27And you conspired with others to harm my family.

00:17:30Victoria trembled from head to toe.

00:17:32She looked at me with tears in her eyes.

00:17:35Nora!

00:17:36No, Mrs. Castellano!

00:17:38I'm sorry.

00:17:39I know I was wrong.

00:17:40I shouldn't have stolen your proposal.

00:17:42I shouldn't have bad-mouthed you at work.

00:17:44And I never should have targeted you and Leo at school.

00:17:48Please forgive me this one time.

00:17:50I'll never do it again.

00:17:52I looked at her calmly.

00:17:53I gave you a chance at work.

00:17:54You chose not to stop.

00:17:56Starting today, you're fired from Meridian Group for good.

00:17:59You're blacklisted from this industry for life.

00:18:02No company in Jersey City is to hire you.

00:18:04Take your son and get out of Jersey City.

00:18:06Never come back.

00:18:07No, no.

00:18:08Victoria completely broke down.

00:18:11A lifetime blacklist and exile from Jersey City would destroy her career and every connection she had.

00:18:17Everything she had been so proud of was gone in an instant.

00:18:19She tried to beg again.

00:18:23But the bodyguards grabbed her and pulled her up.

00:18:26Jacob burst into tears beside her, crying for his mother.

00:18:30No one paid him any attention.

00:18:32Victoria and Jacob were dragged out together, their cries fading into the distance.

00:18:37At last, the office was quiet.

00:18:39Cowering in the corner, Miss Carter shook like a leaf.

00:18:42It was clear she had backed the wrong side.

00:18:44She had thought Victoria's husband was a big shot.

00:18:47But she never imagined my husband was the one ruling supreme.

00:18:50Less than two minutes later, the principal came rushing in, out of breath.

00:18:53Luca's assistant had called him.

00:18:55By the time he got there, he already knew the basics, and he looked terrified.

00:18:59Half the donations for St. Mary's current size came from the Castellanos.

00:19:02If Luca was unhappy, he could shut the school down in minutes.

00:19:05Mr. Castellano, Mrs. Castellano, I'm so sorry.

00:19:08We failed Mrs. Castellano and your son.

00:19:11We never should have allowed them to be treated this way.

00:19:13I sincerely apologize.

00:19:16Luca ignored him and pointed at Miss Carter in the corner.

00:19:19This teacher, she ignored the truth, sucking up to power.

00:19:24She enabled bullying and attacked my family.

00:19:27She doesn't deserve to teach.

00:19:30You're fired!

00:19:31Pack your things and get out!

00:19:32The school will report you to the Board of Education!

00:19:36Your teaching license will be permanently revoked!

00:19:39Miss Carter's legs gave out, and she collapsed onto the floor.

00:19:42She had only wanted to curry favor with someone rich.

00:19:44She never imagined she would lose both her job and her teaching license.

00:19:48Please, principal, I know I was wrong.

00:19:51Please give me one more chance!

00:19:54One more chance?

00:19:55Of all people, you had to offend Mr. Castellano!

00:19:59You're lucky I'm not suing you for damages!

00:20:02Get out!

00:20:03Security guards dragged Miss Carter away, her face ashen.

00:20:06Wiping his sweat, the principal eyed Luca warily.

00:20:09Mr. Castellano, any other requests?

00:20:11Luca held Leo's hand, his tone calm but unquestionable.

00:20:15Two things.

00:20:16First, send out a school-wide notice about what happened today.

00:20:20Make it clear that Leo acted in self-defense and that Jacob was at fault.

00:20:23Publicly apologize to Leo and clear his name.

00:20:26The principal nodded repeatedly.

00:20:28Yes, of course.

00:20:30I'll handle it immediately.

00:20:32We'll hold a school-wide assembly this afternoon and publicly apologize to your son.

00:20:36Second.

00:20:37Luca's gaze settled on the principal.

00:20:39Second.

00:20:39Wipe out this bullying culture.

00:20:41Completely.

00:20:42Retrain every single teacher.

00:20:44One more biased, enabling act and the entire management is replaced.

00:20:49Understood.

00:20:50Absolutely understood.

00:20:52I'll draw up a corrective action plan right away.

00:20:54It will be fully implemented within a week.

00:20:56This will never happen again.

00:20:58The principal groaned inwardly.

00:20:59Who could have known that low-profile Leo was the young heir of the Castellano family?

00:21:04If Miss Carter had known, she never would have dared to do this.

00:21:07Leo stood beside his father with his chest puffed out.

00:21:10He knew no one would ever call him a bastard again.

00:21:13Watching Luca handle everything so calmly made me feel safe.

00:21:16It wasn't that I couldn't handle things myself, but being protected felt really good.

00:21:21After settling everything at the school, Luca took my hand and carried Leo in his other

00:21:25arm as we headed out.

00:21:27Teachers and parents had gathered in the hallway, peeking around to watch.

00:21:30The moment they saw us come out, they all lowered their heads and fell silent.

00:21:35The contempt they'd shown Leo and me moments ago had turned to fear.

00:21:38The three of us walked out of the school building and into the sunlight.

00:21:42I thought it was finally over, but I had no clue.

00:21:45This was just the beginning.

00:21:46The day after I returned from school, I officially began cleaning up Meridian's Jersey City branch.

00:21:51The evidence against Mark was conclusive.

00:21:53I also exposed his old crimes.

00:21:55Kickbacks, embezzlement, and shady deals with the Rizzos.

00:21:59Meridian Group headquarters immediately issued its decision.

00:22:02Mark was handed over to the authorities.

00:22:04The Rizzo family's remaining influence in Jersey City was uprooted, and several partners connected

00:22:09to Tony Rizzo were removed from our supply chain as well.

00:22:12In just two weeks, the entire culture at the Jersey City branch changed.

00:22:17Slackers were fired or fell in line, and our profits actually surged.

00:22:21Luca smiled and called me his lucky charm.

00:22:23In just six months, I sorted out Jersey's decade-old mess for him.

00:22:27The Castellano family's hold on the East Coast grew even stronger.

00:22:30But in my mind, a different plan was brewing.

00:22:33Meridian was still a Castellano family business.

00:22:36No matter how well I did, people would only ever say,

00:22:39She's the Dawn's wife.

00:22:40I didn't want to live under Luca's glory forever.

00:22:43And I didn't want to spend my life in the shadow of mafia business.

00:22:46I wanted a path that truly belonged to me.

00:22:48A clean, legitimate path.

00:22:50That night, I stood by the terrace railing, looking out over Jersey City.

00:22:54For the first time, I told Luca I wanted to resign.

00:22:57At first, Luca refused outright.

00:22:59He said to just ask for any business.

00:23:02No need to suffer through starting from scratch.

00:23:04But I stood firm.

00:23:05I didn't want a ready-made business empire.

00:23:08I wanted a world I'd built with my own hands.

00:23:11He couldn't change my mind.

00:23:12So eventually, he gave in.

00:23:14He had only one condition.

00:23:16I wasn't allowed to refuse his protection from the shadows.

00:23:19I resigned from every position at Meridian.

00:23:22Using the savings I'd built up over the years,

00:23:24I founded Nova Group, starting with cross-border trade and industrial investment.

00:23:29The beginning was difficult.

00:23:31Without the Castellano name behind me, partners hesitated.

00:23:35Some even sabotaged me.

00:23:36But I had never been afraid of hardship.

00:23:38I spent my days meeting clients and negotiating deals.

00:23:42At night, I rewrote proposals and mapped out plans.

00:23:45Luca never said a word, but he quietly cleared away obstacles behind the scenes,

00:23:50shielding me from rivals' dirty tricks.

00:23:52Fifteen years passed in the blink of an eye.

00:23:55Nova Group grew from a tiny office into one of the East Coast's leading diversified business groups.

00:24:00In the legitimate business world,

00:24:02it was nearly a match for the Castellano family's underworld influence.

00:24:06Everyone in Jersey City knew there were two people you didn't mess with.

00:24:09Luca Castellano in the dark.

00:24:11Nora Castellano in the light.

00:24:13When Leo grew up, he returned to New York to help Luca manage the family business.

00:24:17He became the standout heir of his generation.

00:24:20Sofia stayed in Jersey City.

00:24:21I enrolled her at the best school in the area, Street Westvale Academy.

00:24:26I wanted her to have a few peaceful years as a student.

00:24:29That year, Sofia turned 18.

00:24:31I was leaving for Europe to negotiate a cross-border acquisition.

00:24:34Before I left, I gave my daughter Sofia Nova Group's Premier Black card.

00:24:38The card had no spending limit.

00:24:40I told her she needed to spend at least $5 million every month.

00:24:43Every heir to the Castellano family and Nova Group

00:24:46had to first learn how to wield wealth and resources.

00:24:48At first, I thought she was just growing up, splurging on fashion.

00:24:53The more she spent, the more driven I felt to grow my business.

00:24:56But before long, I realized something was wrong.

00:24:58In just three days, the card had been used to place orders for more than 100 luxury accessories.

00:25:04Within five days, it had paid for 10 downtown apartments.

00:25:07Yesterday was worse, 100 tacky designer toys swiped in one go.

00:25:11I called off the rest of my trip and quietly flew back to Jersey City for answers.

00:25:15But the moment I got off the plane, my assistant came with shocking news.

00:25:19Sofia was hit by a car while scavenging trash on the street.

00:25:22I was still reeling from the news when I learned she was in a regular hospital room.

00:25:26She couldn't even afford a few thousand in medical bills.

00:25:29Then a spending alert popped up on my phone.

00:25:31That black card had just been charged for a luxury spa package and full body treatment.

00:25:35I stopped my assistant from freezing it.

00:25:37Since someone loved spending my daughter's money so much, I'd let them have their fill.

00:25:41As I stepped off the private jet, I was still carrying the 18th birthday gift I'd picked out for Sofia.

00:25:47I kept picturing her eyes lighting up when she saw it.

00:25:49But the second I left the airport, my phone flooded with more than a dozen missed calls.

00:25:53Then another call came through.

00:25:55This is Haven Medical Center.

00:25:56Are you Sofia Castellino's mother?

00:25:58She was hit while scavenging trash yesterday and was rushed into emergency care.

00:26:02We saved her life, but her medical bills still haven't been paid.

00:26:04How is that possible?

00:26:06What? Planning to skip the bill?

00:26:08Pay up now.

00:26:09Otherwise, we'll throw her out to fend for herself.

00:26:11The line went dead.

00:26:12Shocked and confused, I immediately told the driver to head for the hospital.

00:26:16Why scavenge trash?

00:26:18Even with allowance gone, maids and guards around, she'd never go hungry.

00:26:22And she had Nova Group's premier black card.

00:26:24How could she possibly be unable to pay a hospital bill?

00:26:27The moment I got out of the car, I rushed straight to her room.

00:26:30The instant I pushed open the door, my heart clenched.

00:26:33My daughter lay in that bed, so emaciated she was unrecognizable.

00:26:37Her cheeks, once round, were now hollow.

00:26:39She was little more than skin and bones.

00:26:41Her arm was in a thick cast that looked impossibly heavy on her frail body.

00:26:45The moment she saw me, tears filled her dull eyes.

00:26:48I walked over and pulled her into my arms.

00:26:50Don't be scared, sweetheart.

00:26:52Mom's here.

00:26:52Her face was bruised and swollen.

00:26:54Tiny cuts covered her exposed forearm.

00:26:57The silver Castellano mark on her neck had faded to near invisibility.

00:27:01In only one year, my beautiful, pampered little princess had been reduced to this.

00:27:06Mom, the nurse said today's the last day.

00:27:08If I don't pay, they're gonna kick me out.

00:27:10Her tears fell onto the back of my hand, burning my skin and breaking my heart.

00:27:15I gently stroked her hair.

00:27:19Didn't mom leave you the black card?

00:27:21How could you have no money?

00:27:22Her frail body shook uncontrollably.

00:27:24I gave her an encouraging look, and she finally spoke in a timid voice.

00:27:29Julian took my card for Clara.

00:27:31He said, I don't deserve to be a daughter of the Castino family.

00:27:35He said I don't deserve him either.

00:27:37Julian Marsh was the son of Luca's long-serving butler.

00:27:41Clara Marsh was the butler's distant niece.

00:27:43I took pity on Clara and let her grow up with Sophia, even sharing the same schooling.

00:27:48Quite a few servants whispered that Julian would one day marry into the Castellano family.

00:27:52Later, Clara's intentions grew darker.

00:27:55I found an excuse to send her away from the Castellano estate.

00:27:58A generous payout ensured she was set for life.

00:28:00I had already done more than enough for her.

00:28:03With Luca and me away, those ungrateful wretches teamed up.

00:28:06They actually dared to bully my daughter.

00:28:08Looking at Sophia's timid, exhausted face, I felt as if my heart were being torn apart.

00:28:14Mom won't let them get away with this.

00:28:16I stroked her hair and said each word slowly and deliberately.

00:28:20From now on, no one will ever bully you again.

00:28:24The second I finished speaking, the nurse shoved open the door and slapped the bill down at the foot of

00:28:29Sophia's bed.

00:28:31Pay up now.

00:28:32No cash, no bed.

00:28:34I looked around the dark, cramped, shared ward that reeked of stale air.

00:28:38Then I looked at the filthy sheets beneath my daughter.

00:28:41The coldness in my eyes deepened.

00:28:43I made one phone call.

00:28:44Less than ten minutes later, the hospital director rushed in.

00:28:47The nurse who had been so arrogant moments ago went pale on the spot.

00:28:51The director turned on the nurse.

00:28:52The way you treat patients shows you have no business working here.

00:28:55Then he turned to me and bowed his head.

00:28:58Mrs. Castellano, it's our failure.

00:29:01We let your daughter suffer.

00:29:03The nurse collapsed to the floor and tried to beg for mercy.

00:29:06Security dragged her out.

00:29:07The director cautiously suggested moving Sophia to a VIP suite on the top floor immediately.

00:29:12I shook my head.

00:29:13Then I made another call.

00:29:15Less than ten minutes later, a private medical team arrived with a full set of equipment.

00:29:19They escorted Sophia into the private medical transport waiting downstairs.

00:29:23My assistant followed behind me, delivering her report in a brisk, respectful tone.

00:29:29Mrs. Castellano, while you were away, Julian started his own company.

00:29:32He's been telling everyone he's your future son-in-law.

00:29:35Using the Castellano name, he took on many projects.

00:29:38He even claimed you'd eventually let him run Nova's Jersey branch.

00:29:43He tells everyone Clara is his fiancée.

00:29:47And that she's the real Castellano heiress.

00:29:50Clara has taken over the downtown apartment you prepared for Miss Sophia years ago.

00:29:55She even drove Miss Sophia out of the side wing at the Castellano estate.

00:29:58I'd always thought Julian was smart enough.

00:30:00I sent him to Street Westvale Academy when he was young,

00:30:03and had Luca expose him to a world he never would have seen otherwise.

00:30:07A few small favors, and he already thought he was somebody.

00:30:10For more than ten years, Clara had been passing herself off as a Castellano heiress in Jersey City's social circles.

00:30:16She felt no guilt. She wanted to take everything that rightfully belonged to Sophia.

00:30:20I clenched my fists.

00:30:22From now on, my daughter would no longer be someone they could push around and bully at will.

00:30:26Then another spending alert popped up on my phone.

00:30:29It was the entry fee for an underground auction in a week's time,

00:30:32charged to that same black card.

00:30:34Mrs. Castellano, should I freeze the card now?

00:30:37Not yet.

00:30:38I looked out the window, my gaze turning cold.

00:30:41Freeze it at seven in a week.

00:30:43Also, arrange entry for Sophia and me.

00:30:45I'm going to the auction myself.

00:30:47Yes, Mrs. Castellano.

00:30:49I'm on it.

00:30:50Since they loved money so much,

00:30:52and loved impersonating others so much,

00:30:54I'd soon have a very special gift for them.

00:30:56I also needed to find out exactly how Sophia got those injuries.

00:31:00My little girl was covered in bruises and wounds.

00:31:03The thought filled me with rage and broke my heart.

00:31:05Mom, are you mad at me?

00:31:06Sophia timidly tugged at my sleeve.

00:31:08I'm sorry, Mom.

00:31:09Mom, I won't say bad things about Clara again.

00:31:12I'll give Clara everything.

00:31:13Just don't abandon me.

00:31:15My eyes stung.

00:31:16What had they done to my daughter to make her think that?

00:31:18How could I ever abandon her?

00:31:20I'm not mad at you.

00:31:21I pulled her into my arms.

00:31:22I'm angry because I failed to protect my baby.

00:31:26What belongs to you, no one can take away.

00:31:29How could I ever abandon you?

00:31:31Sophia's eyes lit up for a second.

00:31:32Then her gaze dropped again.

00:31:34But Julian said you obviously like Clara better because she's so obedient and well-behavored.

00:31:40He claims he's the son-in-law you and dad handpicked.

00:31:42Only he deserves to inherit the Castellino Empire.

00:31:45I let out a cold laugh.

00:31:47Where did Julian get that kind of blind confidence?

00:31:49He was an older student at Sophia's school.

00:31:51Clean cut and well-mannered, the kind of boy-girls Sophia's age usually go for.

00:31:56Luca and I were constantly traveling back and forth back then.

00:31:59We worried Sophia would have no one she knew once she was home.

00:32:01So we let Julian stay at the estate.

00:32:03We only wanted him to look after her.

00:32:05I never imagined I'd let a wolf into my home.

00:32:08I lifted Sophia's chin and looked into her tear-filled eyes.

00:32:11Sophia Castellino, you are the only daughter your father and I have.

00:32:15You are the sole heir to both the Castellino family and Nova group.

00:32:19One day, everything will be yours.

00:32:21You don't have a sister.

00:32:22And you don't need any man by your side to help you.

00:32:25You'll be the head of the family.

00:32:27Do you understand?

00:32:28The tension slowly left Sophia's face.

00:32:30She nodded firmly.

00:32:32That was more like it.

00:32:33One week later, at 7 that evening, I took Sophia into the underground black gold auction.

00:32:38It was hidden nine levels beneath downtown.

00:32:40Inside, black marble veined with gold and the Castellino family crest gave the space a cold,

00:32:46luxurious feel.

00:32:47At this auction, reserved for the most powerful elite, money could buy anything.

00:32:51The hostess spotted the black gold emblem on my finger and immediately led us upstairs.

00:32:56Welcome.

00:32:57Please follow me to the VIP suite on the third floor.

00:33:00That emblem wasn't something money alone could buy.

00:33:02You needed wealth and influence just to get in.

00:33:05The third floor accommodated no more than five guests.

00:33:07Here, even multi-millionaires only deserved regular first floor seats.

00:33:12Custom desserts and $10,000 wines filled the suite.

00:33:16Have something to eat, sweetheart?

00:33:18I slid the plate toward Sophia.

00:33:22Beyond the one-way glass, my gaze settled on the crowd below.

00:33:26Clara and Julian were both there.

00:33:28Like a real princess, Clara was surrounded by students from Street Westvale Academy.

00:33:32She wore the latest couture gown and radiated confidence.

00:33:35I turned to look at my thin, fragile daughter beside me.

00:33:39The light in her eyes was so faint it was nearly gone.

00:33:41It felt like a knife twisting in my chest.

00:33:44Not long after the auction began, Clara loudly announced that it was her birthday.

00:33:48She told her classmates to bid on whatever they wanted.

00:33:51Everything was on her tab.

00:33:53Every time she raised her paddle, I casually raised the bid.

00:33:57She set her sights on a diamond necklace with a starting price of $1 million.

00:34:02I drove the price all the way up to $5 million.

00:34:07Who's on the third floor?

00:34:09Why target me?

00:34:10Aren't they afraid of offending the Castino family?

00:34:13Clara's face turned white with anger.

00:34:15It's fine, babe.

00:34:16Money is just a number.

00:34:18Once this is over, I'll drag that person out and make them pay.

00:34:21He flashed my black card, oozing arrogance.

00:34:24Seeing that I was only driving up the bids and not buying anything,

00:34:27Sophia looked at me uneasily.

00:34:29Mom, aren't we going to bid on anything?

00:34:31Nothing they have out there is that special.

00:34:33Smiling, I took out a velvet box and slid it toward her.

00:34:36This is what I got you for your 18th birthday.

00:34:38See if you like it.

00:34:40Inside was an emerald and diamond necklace.

00:34:42It was a family heirloom passed down from one Castellano matriarch to the next.

00:34:47It had once been Luca's grandmother's prized possession.

00:34:50Once it was mine, I had it redesigned.

00:34:52It was priceless.

00:34:53Everything being auctioned tonight combined was not worth even a fraction of its value.

00:34:58I'm not worthy of this.

00:35:00Sophia did not even dare touch it.

00:35:01Silly girl, only you deserve this.

00:35:04I fastened the necklace around her neck myself.

00:35:06My little princess should wear only the best.

00:35:09Sophia gently touched the gems at her throat, then suddenly threw her arms around me.

00:35:14It was the first time she had ever hugged me on her own.

00:35:17Warmth spread through my body.

00:35:18I made up my mind.

00:35:19I would give her the best of everything in the world,

00:35:22and everyone who had hurt her would pay the price.

00:35:24We chatted for a while before I stepped out to take a work call.

00:35:27When I came back, Sophia was surrounded by a crowd on the first floor.

00:35:31Sophia, Claire never invited you.

00:35:33How dare you tag along?

00:35:35Miss Castellano brought the whole class so we could see what real high society looks like.

00:35:39She got everyone in, except a beggar like you.

00:35:41What's that junk around your neck?

00:35:43That green is hideous.

00:35:44Clearly some dollar store knockoff.

00:35:46The short-haired girl yanked the necklace, leaving a bloody red mark on Sophia's skin.

00:35:52She's still daydreaming about being a rich heiress.

00:35:55It's pathetic.

00:35:57A boy nearby joined in, and everyone burst out laughing.

00:36:00Insults came from every direction.

00:36:02Some called her a fraud.

00:36:04Others said she was a bastard who had stolen Clara's place.

00:36:07In the chaos, someone snatched her handbag.

00:36:10Several pairs of hands shoved her toward the corner.

00:36:13The second I saw it, I understood where Sophia's injuries had come from.

00:36:17I fought back the overwhelming rage.

00:36:19Walking downstairs slowly, I pulled out my phone, recording everything.

00:36:24Photos were strictly banned here.

00:36:26Except for me.

00:36:27I called the man whose name could make the entire East Coast underworld tremble.

00:36:31Hey, sweetheart.

00:36:32Did Sophia get her birthday gift?

00:36:33Was she surprised?

00:36:35Look at the photos and videos I sent you.

00:36:37Our daughter was bullied into the hospital.

00:36:39What's your move?

00:36:40Wait for me.

00:36:41The call ended.

00:36:42I knew this was the end of it.

00:36:44When Luca lost control, he was nothing like me.

00:36:47He didn't care about rules or decorum.

00:36:49Those people would spend their remaining days regretting today.

00:36:52In the main hall, more than a dozen students in uniform surrounded Sophia.

00:36:57They looked down on her and mocked her over and over.

00:37:00They shoved her to the floor, then wouldn't let her get back up.

00:37:03Give me back my necklace.

00:37:04I came here with my mom.

00:37:06I didn't tag along with you.

00:37:08The short-haired girl laughed as if it were the world's best joke.

00:37:11She toyed with the necklace in her hand.

00:37:13Your mom?

00:37:15Just another scavenger like you?

00:37:17Probably slept with some old geezer to get in.

00:37:21Shut up!

00:37:22Don't you dare insult my mom!

00:37:24Sophia suddenly looked up and glared at her.

00:37:27A fierce, cold glint flashed in her eyes.

00:37:30The short-haired girl froze, then instinctively took a step back.

00:37:34Listen up!

00:37:35Just then, Clara swept out from behind the crowd.

00:37:38She lifted her chin, her voice bright and vicious.

00:37:41Ten grand to anyone who slaps her.

00:37:44In a tailored suit, Julian held Clara's waist, looking cozy.

00:37:47Once mom's back, I'll have her pull strings for your business.

00:37:50Clara lifted her chin, and the students around her immediately perked up.

00:37:54Clearly, this wasn't the first time she'd made empty promises like that.

00:37:58Of course, Miss Castellano.

00:37:59Got some new tricks.

00:38:00I'll keep you satisfied.

00:38:02Julian, you don't actually pity that stray, right?

00:38:04Julian looked down at Clara, his voice gentle.

00:38:07Baby, as long as you're happy.

00:38:09Struggling to stand, Sophia froze at his words.

00:38:13Julian was the senior she'd secretly crushed on for years.

00:38:16And he'd said something like that.

00:38:17The light in her eyes slowly faded.

00:38:19Clara smiled sweetly, full of smug satisfaction.

00:38:23The fit guy beside her immediately leaned in, sucking up to her.

00:38:26Miss Clara is the only heir to the Castellano bloodline.

00:38:29She and Julian are a perfect match.

00:38:31She was born to have it all.

00:38:32Someone like Sophia isn't even fit to wipe her shoes.

00:38:35Clara's smile grew even brighter.

00:38:37She was clearly enjoying the attention.

00:38:39Blame yourself for not knowing your place.

00:38:41Stealing my fiancé, then daring to pose as a Castellano?

00:38:44Stepping forward, I grabbed the short-haired girl's raised wrist.

00:38:48A slight squeeze was enough to make her shriek in pain.

00:38:50With my other hand, I helped Sophia up and gently wiped away her tears.

00:38:55It's okay, sweetheart.

00:38:56Mom's here.

00:38:58The crowd immediately erupted.

00:39:00She really came here with her mom?

00:39:02She doesn't look exactly broke, though.

00:39:03So what?

00:39:04Does her mother really have more clout than Miss Clara's?

00:39:07What are you scared of?

00:39:08Her daughter was the one who offended Miss Clara.

00:39:10Make them both kneel and apologize, and we'll call it even.

00:39:13I let out a quiet laugh and swept my gaze across the room.

00:39:17My voice wasn't loud, but it carried clearly.

00:39:19Since when did I, Nora Castellano, have any daughter but Sophia?

00:39:23The crowd exploded.

00:39:24Everyone in Jersey City knew the name Nora Castellano, but very few had ever seen me in person.

00:39:30My private information had never appeared in public.

00:39:32They only knew me as the lady of the Castellano estate and Nova's true power.

00:39:36My husband, Luca, ruled the underworld.

00:39:39I ran the legitimate business empire.

00:39:41I wasn't just some ordinary rich man's wife.

00:39:43I'd taken over all the family businesses long ago.

00:39:46I was ruthless in business, and no one had ever dared take me lightly.

00:39:49Is she actually Mrs. Castellano?

00:39:52I knew that third floor bidder was no joke.

00:39:54Who else but Mrs. Castellano would dare defy Clara?

00:39:56The short-haired girl immediately panicked.

00:39:58As if remembering, she shook her head violently.

00:40:01No way!

00:40:02Clara said Mrs. Castellano is in Europe on business right now!

00:40:05She's not even in Jersey City!

00:40:07This bitch is totally faking it!

00:40:09I raised a brow and stalked toward her.

00:40:11Your mouth just gave you away.

00:40:13Time to teach you some respect.

00:40:15I'll teach you some respect.

00:40:17The girl screamed and lunged at me.

00:40:18I sidestepped and kicked her straight into the corner.

00:40:21Snatching the emerald chain, I whipped the jeering boys.

00:40:24The sharp crack sent them shrieking.

00:40:26The situation spun out of control in seconds.

00:40:28The others rushed at Sophia, trying to take her hostage.

00:40:31Sophia froze in terror.

00:40:33I immediately stepped in front of her.

00:40:35Mom!

00:40:35Sophia clutched the hem of my jacket.

00:40:38Wait!

00:40:38Julian stepped forward, deathly pale.

00:40:40Aunt Nora?

00:40:42Please, let me explain.

00:40:43Everyone around us was completely stunned.

00:40:45What did Julian call her?

00:40:47Aunt Nora?

00:40:47Is she really Nora Castellano?

00:40:49Didn't Clara say she was the only Castellano heir?

00:40:52What's going on?

00:40:52Don't the Castellanos only have one daughter?

00:40:54I swept a cold look over Clara's pale face.

00:40:57My voice was like ice.

00:40:58Explain how you, a fake, abused my daughter.

00:41:01Or how you got her card.

00:41:03Don't call me mom.

00:41:04I stared at Clara's pale face and spoke, slow and deliberate.

00:41:08I, Nora Castellano, have only one daughter.

00:41:12Sophia Castellano.

00:41:13The second I finished speaking, the bodyguard stepped forward and slapped Clara several times.

00:41:18Her face swelled almost instantly.

00:41:20She could barely stand.

00:41:22Kept upright only by Julian.

00:41:24Julian looked heartbroken.

00:41:25He looked up at me with resentment in his eyes.

00:41:28Aunt Nora, Clara has always looked up to you.

00:41:31How could you break her heart like this?

00:41:33You raised her for over ten years.

00:41:35Sophia only came back a few years ago.

00:41:37How could Sophia possibly compare to Clara?

00:41:39I just heard a joke.

00:41:41You?

00:41:41Just my housekeeper's son?

00:41:43Who gave you the nerve to steal my daughter's things and defend a nobody?

00:41:47The student stared in shock.

00:41:48The housekeeper's son?

00:41:50Wasn't Julian supposed to be the heir to some wealthy family?

00:41:53So he's been pretending this whole time?

00:41:55He's not some rich kid at all.

00:41:57He's a servant's son?

00:41:59Julian's face turned red.

00:42:00Aunt Nora, if you still want someone to inherit the family business, throw Sophia out!

00:42:05I'll only ever love Clara!

00:42:06I will never marry anyone else!

00:42:08I was so mad, I almost laughed.

00:42:11Who you marry means nothing to me.

00:42:13And the Castellino Empire is none of your concern.

00:42:15But you bullied my daughter?

00:42:18Castellino rules, don't let that slide.

00:42:19People in the crowd started whispering.

00:42:21They'd catered to Julian, assuming he was the future son-in-law.

00:42:25Now, it was clear he was just an ungrateful snake.

00:42:28Only my daughter touches the Castellino and Nova Empire.

00:42:31My tone was calm.

00:42:33Paying you to leave is my final mercy.

00:42:34I had run out of patience with these two idiots.

00:42:37I tipped my chin toward the bodyguards.

00:42:39They immediately stepped forward and tied Julian and Clara up tightly.

00:42:43The auction house security guards looked the other way.

00:42:45This place was Castellano territory.

00:42:47I had the two of them brought in front of Sophia.

00:42:50Don't be afraid.

00:42:51I placed an ornamental cane in her hand.

00:42:53Give them exactly what they gave you.

00:42:56This is what they owe you.

00:42:58Sophia gripped the cane.

00:42:59Her face was thin, but her eyes were shining.

00:43:02Wiping her tears,

00:43:03Sophia slammed the cane into Clara's leg.

00:43:06This is for your lies and theft.

00:43:09Are you insane?

00:43:11Julian grabbed Clara and tried to bolt,

00:43:13but the bodyguards pinned him down instantly.

00:43:16Miss Clara Marsh, your total tonight is $98 million.

00:43:19Card, please.

00:43:20Clara jutted her chin out and tossed over her black card.

00:43:23Swipe it.

00:43:24Pocket change.

00:43:25The staff swiped the card on the terminal.

00:43:27The screen immediately flashed red.

00:43:29Transaction declined.

00:43:30Account frozen.

00:43:31I'm sorry, miss.

00:43:32This card won't go through.

00:43:33Clara shrieked.

00:43:34That's impossible.

00:43:35This is an unlimited black card.

00:43:37How can it not work?

00:43:38Your machine must be broken.

00:43:39I said coolly.

00:43:40Of course.

00:43:41I jacked up the bids,

00:43:42then froze the card right before checkout.

00:43:45Enjoy the astromonical bill, you fake iris.

00:43:48This underground auction had always operated in the gray area.

00:43:51The rule was simple.

00:43:52Anyone unable to pay would not only lose their items,

00:43:56but also owe a massive penalty.

00:43:58Some even disappeared from this city entirely.

00:44:00Clara panicked.

00:44:01I don't want them anymore.

00:44:02I don't want any of this.

00:44:04It's too late to say that now.

00:44:05If it weren't for this phony,

00:44:07we wouldn't have pissed off the Castellanos.

00:44:09We thought we'd get a piece of the pies.

00:44:11Now it's all over.

00:44:13Now it's all over.

00:44:14Clara, you screwed us over.

00:44:16The students who had been egging her on completely panicked.

00:44:19The room descended into chaos,

00:44:21crying and shouting mixed with curses.

00:44:23I had no interest in watching any longer.

00:44:25Holding Sophia's hand,

00:44:27I left under the protection of my bodyguards.

00:44:29Let them tear each other apart for all I care.

00:44:31Sophia was discharged the next day.

00:44:33A stretch.

00:44:34Lincoln limousine slowly rolled through the gates of the Castellano estate.

00:44:38All the servants lined up along the driveway,

00:44:40bowing and greeting.

00:44:41Welcome home, ma'am.

00:44:42Welcome home, miss.

00:44:43I spotted Mrs. Marsh, the head housekeeper,

00:44:46cowering at the back of the crowd.

00:44:48I ignored her for now.

00:44:49I went straight to Sophia's room on the third floor.

00:44:52I opened the door to find the room completely trashed.

00:44:55Furniture smashed to pieces.

00:44:57Walls smeared with filth.

00:44:58A servant lowered her head as she reported.

00:45:00Clara brazenly moved in and took over Julian's room.

00:45:03She also trashed Miss Sophia's room.

00:45:05Take everything Clara and Julian left to the back garden and burn it.

00:45:08Already on it, ma'am.

00:45:09And one more thing.

00:45:11I turned around.

00:45:11Did you find out what happened?

00:45:13Yes, ma'am.

00:45:14Mrs. Marsh abused her position and lied to everyone.

00:45:17She said you had been deceived.

00:45:19She claimed Miss Sophia was an imposter.

00:45:21And she helped Clara drive Miss Sophia out of the estate.

00:45:24I walked into the main hall.

00:45:25Mrs. Marsh was standing there, deathly pale.

00:45:28You're fired.

00:45:29My voice was even.

00:45:30Everyone involved will be held accountable for theft and property damage.

00:45:34We're pressing charges.

00:45:35Ma'am!

00:45:36I raised Clara myself!

00:45:37I won't let her be treated like this!

00:45:40You'll regret this!

00:45:41My son is going to be somebody soon!

00:45:43I gave a cold laugh and did not bother responding.

00:45:46Drag her away first.

00:45:48Handle her by family rules, then throw her out.

00:45:51Security stepped in, grabbed Mrs. Marsh, and dragged her off.

00:45:54Meanwhile, the auction house held Clara and Julian all night.

00:45:58They had to return every item and scrape together a $10 million penalty just to be let go.

00:46:03When Clara returned to Street Westvale Academy, she went from the top to the bottom overnight.

00:46:08She became a total laughingstock.

00:46:10Everyone loved kicking her while she was down.

00:46:12I made sure word got out that Julian was blacklisted from every legitimate business circle in this city.

00:46:17His so-called partners immediately canceled their contracts and cut all ties.

00:46:21Someone lured him to an underground casino, hoping he'd get lucky and win back some cash.

00:46:26At first, his luck held.

00:46:28He thought he could dig himself out of the hole.

00:46:29But in a single night, he lost everything and ended up drowning in debt.

00:46:33In the end, they had to move into a run-down apartment in the city's slums.

00:46:37It was an old place Mrs. Marsh had set aside for them.

00:46:40Used to a life of luxury, neither of them could handle the downgrade.

00:46:44Mom, how much money do we have left?

00:46:46Clara frowned at the meager meal on the table.

00:46:48About $500,000?

00:46:53$500,000?

00:46:54What good is that?

00:46:55It won't even cover a dent in our debt!

00:46:58That's my life savings!

00:47:00I was saving it all for you!

00:47:03Even in that dump, Clara still ordered Mrs. Marsh around.

00:47:06She expected to be weighted on hand and foot, still acting like the spoiled heiress she used to be.

00:47:11Julian snapped.

00:47:14Clara, cut it out.

00:47:15If you hadn't pushed things so far back then, we wouldn't be in this mess.

00:47:18Julian, it's all my fault.

00:47:20I dragged you down with me.

00:47:21The Castellano fortune should have been yours.

00:47:23It's because of me that things turned out this way.

00:47:26You're so talented, but they kept holding you back.

00:47:28You never even got a real shot to prove yourself.

00:47:32I understand now.

00:47:34Status and wealth don't matter.

00:47:35As long as you marry me and truly love me, that's enough.

00:47:40Really?

00:47:41As long as it helps you, I'll go through anything.

00:47:44Clara bit her lip.

00:47:47But Aunt Nora is dead set against us being together.

00:47:51Unless we ruin Sophia's reputation first.

00:47:54Ruin her reputation?

00:47:56Yes.

00:47:57We'll leak some compromising videos and DMs and paint her as a total tramp.

00:48:02Then, to save face, the Castellanos will have no choice but to have you marry me, burying the scandal.

00:48:07It's our only way to turn things around.

00:48:10Julian froze for a moment.

00:48:12Then, he nodded.

00:48:15Fine.

00:48:17Let's do it.

00:48:18They struck that very night.

00:48:19A flood of rumors hit the internet.

00:48:22Vulgar headlines topped explicit videos and photos of a girl in a school uniform,

00:48:26some showing her face, others not.

00:48:28Out of context, chat logs were added to paint Sophia as a girl with a trashy private life.

00:48:33The posts claimed she'd been throwing herself at boys since middle school.

00:48:37Later, she supposedly set her sights on Julian, the top student, and harassed him for years.

00:48:43They claimed Julian never wanted her.

00:48:45But Sophia used the Castellanos' patronage to corner him.

00:48:48With the family bankrolling his every move, he supposedly had no choice but to be with her.

00:48:53Without her family's money, who'd even bother with her?

00:48:55A good girl on paper, but totally wild.

00:48:59Castellano or not, she's still a total disgrace.

00:49:02The rumors spread like wildfire through Jersey City's high society and the campus.

00:49:06The more they spread, the uglier they got.

00:49:09Gossip traveled fast, and it grew uglier by the minute.

00:49:13So that's the Castellano family's young lady.

00:49:16She looks respectable, but she's trashier than a streetwalker.

00:49:19She always acts so high and mighty.

00:49:22Who knew she was so wild behind closed doors?

00:49:26She had her fun, and now she wants some decent guy to clean up her mess.

00:49:29So what if Mr. Castellano is powerful?

00:49:31Who would dare marry after this?

00:49:32Only Julian would still be reputation as still ruined.

00:49:34If the Castellanos refuse, it proves they're just classist snobs.

00:49:37The second I got wind of this, I started tracking every platform.

00:49:41I was about to order a mass takedown when the defamatory posts started vanishing at lightning speed.

00:49:47Within minutes, every video, photo, and post had been wiped clean from the internet.

00:49:53I knew it was Leo's work.

00:49:55Then my phone rang.

00:49:57Mom, I killed the rumors.

00:49:59Don't let those bastards get away with hurting my sister.

00:50:02I hung up.

00:50:03When I saw the backup files, the footage of my daughter being set up and coerced on camera.

00:50:09My eyes burned with fury.

00:50:10My knuckles turned white as I clenched my fists.

00:50:12I wanted nothing more than to feed those two to the fish.

00:50:15At the same time, I immediately ordered someone to trace the source of the leaks.

00:50:19Trace the source of the leaks.

00:50:21Find everyone involved.

00:50:23I didn't need to guess who was behind it.

00:50:25It had to be those two ungrateful snakes, Clara and Julian.

00:50:29I hurried to Sophia's room, worried about how she was holding up.

00:50:32Sophia was lying in bed.

00:50:34Mom?

00:50:35Why are you still up?

00:50:37She looked surprised when she saw me enter.

00:50:39I sat down beside her and studied her face carefully.

00:50:41Her eyes were slightly red, though she did not look as if she had been crying.

00:50:45I'll sleep with you tonight.

00:50:46I stroked her hair.

00:50:47Your dad will be back tomorrow.

00:50:49Sophia saw the deletion log on my phone and instantly got it.

00:50:52She sniffled, then comforted me instead.

00:50:56Mom, I'm fine.

00:50:57I won't torture myself over their rumors.

00:51:01I didn't do any of that.

00:51:03If I don't accept it, the shame isn't mine.

00:51:06Warmth filled my heart.

00:51:07That was my daughter.

00:51:09She had the same grit I had at her age.

00:51:11I figured it out a long time ago.

00:51:13Sophia pursed her lips.

00:51:14Julian just strung me along.

00:51:17He'd give me hope whenever I tried moving on.

00:51:19Now I only find him disgusting.

00:51:22I just want to cut him out of my life completely.

00:51:25Good.

00:51:26I patted her back gently.

00:51:27Don't worry.

00:51:28I will not let them off so easily.

00:51:32At 7 the next morning, just as rush hour began,

00:51:35every major online headline was suddenly dominated by compromising videos of Julian and Clara.

00:51:41The settings varied widely.

00:51:42Some were filmed in hotels, while others in empty classrooms at school.

00:51:46At the same time, Nova Group's public relations team issued a formal legal statement.

00:51:52Sophia Castellano is the only daughter of Luca and Nora Castellano,

00:51:55and the sole heir to both the Castellano family and Nova Group.

00:51:59She has no personal relationship whatsoever with Julian Marsh.

00:52:02The statement also exposed the whole truth.

00:52:05Julian faked being a rich heir, stole Sophia's belongings,

00:52:08and worked with Clara to bully and spread rumors about her.

00:52:11The truth exploded across the internet.

00:52:13The feud between the fake heiress and the housekeeper's son

00:52:16became the talk of every social circle in Jersey City.

00:52:19Street Westvale Academy acted swiftly.

00:52:21Every student who had taken part in bullying Sophia was expelled.

00:52:25The businesses belonging to those students' families

00:52:27were also hit one after another by the Castellano family.

00:52:31Overnight, many of them were on the verge of bankruptcy.

00:52:33Clara did not even dare leave the apartment.

00:52:35Every day, she was bombarded with harassing messages.

00:52:39How did the videos get leaked?

00:52:41Clara paced the floor frantically.

00:52:43What are we supposed to do now?

00:52:45How should I know?

00:52:46It was all your stupid idea!

00:52:49Julian paced the room irritably.

00:52:51Nora is going to sue us now.

00:52:54We're done.

00:52:55He never expected Sophia to completely write him off.

00:52:57Even playing the marriage card was a dead end now.

00:53:01No.

00:53:02We have to leave this place.

00:53:04Julian drained Mrs. Marsh's life savings,

00:53:06sold the old apartment,

00:53:08and looted the company.

00:53:09He completely abandoned Mrs. Marsh.

00:53:11Then he and Clara bought tickets to a small Southeast Asian country,

00:53:15intending to flee.

00:53:16But the second they stepped off the plane,

00:53:18a drugged rag was clamped over their faces.

00:53:21They were out cold.

00:53:22Coming to,

00:53:23they'd been brought to a private jet.

00:53:25Luca stood by the boarding stairs in a black trench coat,

00:53:28his aura as cold as ice.

00:53:30His eyes softened only when they landed on his wife and daughter.

00:53:33Sophia stood beside me,

00:53:35looking at him with some uncertainty.

00:53:36She had not spent much time with her dad.

00:53:38She had always thought he was stern and intimidating.

00:53:41But this time,

00:53:42her father had flown back from New York overnight,

00:53:44standing right in front of her to back her up.

00:53:46The private jet landed on the Castellanos' private island,

00:53:50a place where national laws didn't apply,

00:53:52only family rules.

00:53:54Inside an abandoned warehouse,

00:53:56Clara and Julian were tied tightly to chairs

00:53:58with black hoods over their heads.

00:54:00The moment we entered,

00:54:01both of them struggled wildly,

00:54:03but they could not move.

00:54:04Who are you?

00:54:06Let us go!

00:54:07I have plenty of money.

00:54:09I'll give you whatever you want.

00:54:10I'm warning you.

00:54:11I'm marrying into the Castellanos.

00:54:13If you touch me,

00:54:14Mr. Castellano will make you pay.

00:54:16Please, don't hurt me.

00:54:18Julian's voice trembled with tears.

00:54:20Even now,

00:54:21he was still trying to hide behind the Castellano name.

00:54:24Then Leo stepped out of the shadows.

00:54:26Dead.

00:54:26After years apart,

00:54:28Leo's boyish innocence was gone.

00:54:30Walking straight up,

00:54:32he yanked off their black hoods.

00:54:34Harsh white light flooded down on them.

00:54:36Julian squinted against the glare.

00:54:38He saw Luca and me opposite,

00:54:39with an ice-cold Leo beside us.

00:54:42Mr. Castellano,

00:54:43Mrs. Castellano,

00:54:44please spare me!

00:54:45Julian collapsed,

00:54:46thrashing against his ropes,

00:54:48face pressed to the floor.

00:54:49Clara made me do it!

00:54:51I had nothing to do with this!

00:54:52Please don't kill me!

00:54:53Lips trembling,

00:54:55face pale,

00:54:56Clara couldn't even form a sentence.

00:54:58Just then,

00:54:59the iron doors of the warehouse were shoved open.

00:55:02Two bodyguards dragged in Mrs. Marsh,

00:55:04the elderly housekeeper.

00:55:06They shoved her to her knees on the cold concrete.

00:55:08Luca stared at the kneeling Mrs. Marsh,

00:55:10his face darkening.

00:55:13Luca still remembered her years of loyal service.

00:55:15His fingers rested on the grip of his holstered gun.

00:55:18His low voice echoed through the empty warehouse.

00:55:22Marsh, you betrayed the estate,

00:55:24let your kids steal from the air,

00:55:26and egged Claire on to pulley Sophia.

00:55:29Any one of those is enough to get you a death sentence.

00:55:32For your years of service,

00:55:34I'll give you one chance.

00:55:35Mrs. Marsh lay face down on the floor,

00:55:38shaking uncontrollably.

00:55:39The second Julian saw his mother,

00:55:41he looked at her,

00:55:42as if she were his last lifeline.

00:55:45Mom!

00:55:46Please beg Mr. Castellino to spare me!

00:55:49Save me!

00:55:50Luca was silent for a moment.

00:55:52His eyes swept over the pathetic mess Julian had become.

00:55:56Then, he delivered his verdict.

00:55:58Julian, I'll spare your life,

00:56:00but you're blacklisted, deported,

00:56:02and banned from the U.S. forever.

00:56:04Exiled overseas, you'll fend for yourself.

00:56:06Realizing he was spared,

00:56:08Julian cried with joy.

00:56:09He slumped forward, babbling thanks.

00:56:12Then Luca turned to Clara,

00:56:14murder flashing in his eyes.

00:56:15As for you, Clara,

00:56:17you turned people against each other,

00:56:19stole the family black card,

00:56:21and spread vicious lies.

00:56:23For you, there is no mercy.

00:56:25He lifted his chin slightly,

00:56:27signaling the bodyguard beside him.

00:56:29Do it.

00:56:29The bodyguard stepped forward immediately.

00:56:32At the last second,

00:56:33Mrs. Marsh lunged,

00:56:35shielding Clara with her body.

00:56:36Mrs. Marsh threw her arms out to shield Clara.

00:56:39Don't kill her!

00:56:40Please, you can't kill Clara!

00:56:42Her voice hoarse and trembling with terror,

00:56:44everyone froze.

00:56:45Marsh, after everything,

00:56:46you're still willing to die for that vicious girl?

00:56:48Luca's brows furrowed,

00:56:49his face hardening.

00:56:50Gasping for air,

00:56:52Mrs. Marsh summoned her courage,

00:56:53revealing a shattering secret.

00:56:55Clara isn't my niece.

00:56:57She's not related to me by blood.

00:56:59The warehouse fell into a dead silence.

00:57:01My heart sank.

00:57:02A cold wave of dread washed over me.

00:57:04Leo frowned, taking a step forward.

00:57:06Sophia's eyes widened slightly.

00:57:08Years ago, I received secret orders

00:57:10to plant Clara in the Castellino estate

00:57:12as an informant.

00:57:13She's been undercover for over a decade.

00:57:16Whose orders?

00:57:18Mrs. Marsh stammered,

00:57:19words failing her.

00:57:21Luca was out of patience.

00:57:22He fired three shots into the floor

00:57:24at Julian's feet.

00:57:25Speak!

00:57:26Your older sister,

00:57:27Serafina Valos,

00:57:28who died in that crash!

00:57:30Clara is Serafina Valos' biological daughter.

00:57:33The words hit Luca like a physical blow.

00:57:36He staggered back,

00:57:37eyes blank,

00:57:38face pale with disbelief.

00:57:39Leo's whole body went rigid.

00:57:41Serafina was his biological mother.

00:57:43Mrs. Marsh continued,

00:57:45trembling.

00:57:45That car crash was a carefully staged death.

00:57:49Serafina now rules the Valos Black Crown family

00:57:52in the Republic of Valentina.

00:57:54Everyone had heard of the Valos Black Crown family.

00:57:57Their power rivaled Luca's.

00:57:59Maybe even surpassed it.

00:58:00The air in the warehouse seemed to freeze.

00:58:03Luca stood there in a daze,

00:58:04his lips trembling as he struggled to find his voice.

00:58:07His sister faked her death,

00:58:09planting her daughter to destroy them from within.

00:58:11Even Luca,

00:58:12a man known for making ruthless decisions,

00:58:14couldn't process the brutal truth.

00:58:16Leo clenched his fists until his knuckles turned white.

00:58:19All his life,

00:58:20he had believed his birth mother was dead.

00:58:21He never imagined she was alive,

00:58:23or that she'd laid such a vicious trap,

00:58:26putting even Sophia in her crosshairs.

00:58:28While we were still reeling from the shock,

00:58:30a deafening roar suddenly erupted outside the warehouse.

00:58:33Dozens of armed helicopters closed in from all directions.

00:58:36Their engines deafening.

00:58:38Out at sea,

00:58:39a massive fleet of warships closed in.

00:58:41Outside,

00:58:42a loudspeaker boomed,

00:58:43piercing the metal walls.

00:58:45Attention,

00:58:46everyone inside the warehouse.

00:58:47Hand over Clara Valos right now.

00:58:50Do not resist.

00:58:51We walked out of the warehouse.

00:58:52The second we stepped outside,

00:58:54blinding searchlights locked onto us.

00:58:56The beach was packed with heavily armed mercenaries.

00:58:58Surrounded by aimed gun barrels,

00:59:00we couldn't move an inch.

00:59:01Luca and Leo instinctively stepped forward,

00:59:03shielding Sophia and me.

00:59:05The rotors of the lead helicopter hovering offshore spun wildly,

00:59:08kicking up a cloud of sand.

00:59:10The helicopter door slowly slid open.

00:59:12A woman appeared in the opening.

00:59:14She radiated a lethal,

00:59:15untouchable aura.

00:59:16She resembled Luca,

00:59:17but her eyes held a cold,

00:59:19battle-hardened ambition.

00:59:20It was Serafina Valos,

00:59:22the queen of the Valos Black Crown family.

00:59:24She stepped calmly down the metal ramp and onto the sand.

00:59:27Every mercenary immediately bowed their head.

00:59:29Luca stared blankly at his sister as she walked toward us.

00:59:32The man who ruled the East Coast underworld finally spoke.

00:59:35His voice was low.

00:59:36Sis,

00:59:37why?

00:59:39Serafina stopped a few paces away.

00:59:41Her eyes swept Luca,

00:59:42then landed on her biological son,

00:59:44Leo.

00:59:45Why?

00:59:46Serafina let out a low, mocking laugh.

00:59:48Luca,

00:59:49the family legacy was always meant to be mine,

00:59:51but because I was a woman,

00:59:52father placed all his hopes on you.

00:59:53I staged that crash as my rebirth.

00:59:55I fled to the Republic of Valentina

00:59:57and built the Valos Black Crown Underground Empire from scratch.

01:00:00I'm taking back what's rightfully mine.

01:00:02The Castellino Empire,

01:00:04the Nova Group,

01:00:05all of it belongs to me.

01:00:07She looked at the bound Clara.

01:00:09Maternal warmth flickered in her eyes,

01:00:10then vanished.

01:00:12I plan to reveal myself later.

01:00:14Too bad Clara let me down.

01:00:15Serafina gave Leo a casual glance.

01:00:17Leo, Valos blood runs through your veins.

01:00:19If you stand with me,

01:00:20you'll be my second in command.

01:00:21Leo looked coldly at his biological mother.

01:00:23Leo didn't respond.

01:00:25Serafina's expression turned cold.

01:00:27Foolish.

01:00:28Serafina shifted her gaze to me,

01:00:30looking me up and down.

01:00:31Nora Bennett,

01:00:32the woman in charge of Nova Group,

01:00:34fat little nobody,

01:00:35now ruling the business world.

01:00:37Luca stepped in front of me,

01:00:38pulling me behind him.

01:00:39The lethal glare of a mafia dawn returned to his eyes.

01:00:42Don't you dare touch my wife or my kids.

01:00:44Around us,

01:00:45over a thousand mercenaries

01:00:47cocked their guns in unison.

01:00:48Death hung heavy in the air.

01:00:50Serafina raised a hand,

01:00:52and the mercenaries behind her paused.

01:00:54Luca,

01:00:54I'm not here to kill you.

01:00:56I'm giving you a choice.

01:00:58The Castellanos will hand over

01:00:59every smuggling port in the Mediterranean

01:01:01and submit to the Valos family.

01:01:03Nova Group will open all its overseas channels

01:01:04and let my people buy in.

01:01:05Luca's fists clenched so hard,

01:01:07his knuckles cracked.

01:01:08He'd spent his life building his empire.

01:01:11Giving up the ports and bowing to her

01:01:12meant handing over half of it.

01:01:14Impossible.

01:01:15Luca didn't even hesitate.

01:01:17I'm not asking, Luca.

01:01:19Luca, I'm telling.

01:01:20Serafina glanced at Clara.

01:01:22What are you waiting for?

01:01:23With that, Serafina turned and headed for the helicopter.

01:01:26Clara followed her.

01:01:28Wait.

01:01:29Wait.

01:01:29Serafina paused, turning slowly.

01:01:32She raised a brow at Leo opposite.

01:01:34What, you've changed your mind?

01:01:35Everyone froze.

01:01:36Luca reached for Leo's arm,

01:01:37but Leo sidestepped him.

01:01:39Leo took two steps forward.

01:01:41I'm going with you.

01:01:42His words turned our blood to ice.

01:01:44Luca went completely still,

01:01:45his eyes wide with shock.

01:01:47He'd raised Leo for 20 years.

01:01:49The toddler once chasing Luca was a grown man.

01:01:51Now, he was siding with the enemy Luca's sister.

01:01:54My chest tightened.

01:01:55My fingertips went cold.

01:01:57Serafina burst out laughing.

01:01:58Good.

01:01:59Her voice full of triumph.

01:02:00That's my boy.

01:02:02Valus blood runs in your veins.

01:02:04Come back to Valentina with me,

01:02:06and the second-in-command spot is yours.

01:02:08You'll run the entire underground empire

01:02:10in the Mediterranean.

01:02:12She stepped forward and patted Leo's cheek.

01:02:14Serafina looked Leo over,

01:02:16her eyes both appraising and satisfied.

01:02:18Now, what should you call me?

01:02:20Leo turned his head,

01:02:22his gaze cutting through the crowd to land on me.

01:02:24I looked into his eyes.

01:02:26They held too much,

01:02:27something I couldn't read.

01:02:28The silence stretched,

01:02:29feeling like an eternity.

01:02:31Finally, he turned back to Serafina.

01:02:33His voice was quiet.

01:02:35Mom.

01:02:35One word.

01:02:36It was such a soft word,

01:02:38but it hit me like a physical blow.

01:02:40I instinctively took a step back.

01:02:42Luca reached out to steady my arm.

01:02:43His hand was shaking, too.

01:02:45Serafina's smile widened in smug triumph.

01:02:48Oh, Nora.

01:02:50She smiled.

01:02:51You raised my son for 20 years,

01:02:53doing a damn good job.

01:02:55I'll remember this favor.

01:02:56Without another glance,

01:02:58Serafina turned and strode toward the helicopter.

01:03:01Leo stood where he was for a moment.

01:03:02Leo!

01:03:03I couldn't help calling out to him.

01:03:05He paused.

01:03:06Slowly, he turned around.

01:03:07The searchlights flickered across this young man's face.

01:03:10I couldn't make out his expression.

01:03:12I only saw his lips move,

01:03:14but no sound came out.

01:03:15The next second,

01:03:16he turned back.

01:03:17He followed Serafina up the metal ramp.

01:03:19The door slowly shut.

01:03:21The rotors spun faster,

01:03:23kicking up a blinding cloud of sand

01:03:24that stung our eyes.

01:03:26I stood there,

01:03:27watching the helicopter lift off.

01:03:29Then it disappeared into the pitch black night.

01:03:31In just over 10 minutes,

01:03:33the beach was empty of soldiers.

01:03:34Only a few of us remained.

01:03:36Julian and Mrs. Marsh were still collapsed on the ground.

01:03:39The sea wind howled past us,

01:03:41carrying a cold, salty chill.

01:03:43The flight home was dead silent.

01:03:45Luca sat by the window,

01:03:46his jaw clenched tight.

01:03:47He radiated a dark, suffocating pressure.

01:03:50He didn't say a word,

01:03:51but his anger and disappointment were written all over him.

01:03:53No one could easily accept that.

01:03:55Sophia couldn't fathom why her once-protected brother

01:03:58left with that woman.

01:03:59Mom, Leo?

01:04:00She spoke softly,

01:04:01her voice thick with unshed tears.

01:04:03I stroked her hair but said nothing.

01:04:05That ungrateful bastard.

01:04:06Luca's voice was hoarse with suppressed rage.

01:04:08We raised him for 20 years,

01:04:11and this is how he repays you?

01:04:12I reached out and placed my hand over his clenched fist.

01:04:15I said nothing.

01:04:16Yet, in my gut, something felt off.

01:04:19Less than two weeks after Leo left with Serafina,

01:04:21the storm broke.

01:04:22First, three of Nova's overseas acquisitions

01:04:25were snatched away.

01:04:26Their bids always just edged us out.

01:04:28The timing was so precise,

01:04:29it was like they'd read our playbook.

01:04:31Then, three of the Castellano family's smuggling ports

01:04:34in the Mediterranean

01:04:34were seized by local authorities overnight.

01:04:37Word from our informants

01:04:38was that the Valos family was behind it.

01:04:41In the war room,

01:04:42Luca hammered his fingers against the map.

01:04:44His jaw was set in a hard, cold line.

01:04:46She's tightening the noose.

01:04:48She's trying to box us in completely.

01:04:51I stood beside him,

01:04:52looking at the sprawling map of territories.

01:04:54My heart felt heavy.

01:04:55Serafina had been planning for more than a decade.

01:04:58Her network ran deep.

01:04:59This attack was fast and ruthless.

01:05:01She was clearly going for a quick kill.

01:05:03That night, when we returned to our room,

01:05:05Luca stood by the window smoking.

01:05:07His shoulders slumped with exhaustion.

01:05:09I walked over and wrapped my arms around him from behind.

01:05:12He covered my hand with his.

01:05:13His palm was cool.

01:05:15Don't worry, I can handle it.

01:05:16But I knew this time was different.

01:05:18Serafina knew the Castellanos too well.

01:05:20She knew exactly where our weaknesses were.

01:05:22Just before dawn,

01:05:23an assistant pounded frantically on our door,

01:05:26face deathly pale.

01:05:27Sir, ma'am,

01:05:28the biggest casino on the West Coast was raided.

01:05:30All our men inside were wiped out.

01:05:32I hadn't wanted to bring Sophia to the Jersey City Charity Gala,

01:05:36but she insisted.

01:05:37She said there was a chance she might see Leo.

01:05:39I couldn't say no to her,

01:05:40so I brought her.

01:05:41Halfway through the gala,

01:05:42a commotion suddenly broke out at the entrance.

01:05:45Serafina swept in wearing a burgundy velvet gown,

01:05:48her arm linked with Leo's.

01:05:49Clara walked beside them,

01:05:50looking every bit the high society heiress.

01:05:53Sophia's eyes immediately lit up.

01:05:55She slipped her hand from mine and ran over.

01:05:57Leo!

01:05:58She stopped in front of him,

01:06:00looking up,

01:06:00her eyes shining with hope.

01:06:02But Leo only gave her a cold, brief glance.

01:06:04He sidestepped,

01:06:05pulling Clara protectively against his side.

01:06:08I only have one sister.

01:06:09Her name is Clara.

01:06:11Who are you?

01:06:12I don't know you.

01:06:13The room fell silent.

01:06:14Curious, probing eyes instantly locked onto Sophia.

01:06:17Sophia froze,

01:06:18color draining as tears welled up.

01:06:20I hurried over and pulled her into my arms.

01:06:22Then I looked up at Leo.

01:06:24Under the crystal chandelier,

01:06:25his features were cold and unreadable.

01:06:28Clara smugly tightened her grip on Leo's arm

01:06:30and tilted her chin up at us.

01:06:32Before I could speak,

01:06:33Leo turned,

01:06:34heading inside with Serafina.

01:06:35He didn't look back at us once.

01:06:37Nova Group's European partners suddenly announced

01:06:39they were terminating their contracts.

01:06:41I flew there to negotiate.

01:06:43The moment I pushed open the conference room door,

01:06:45I froze.

01:06:46Leo was sitting at the head of the table,

01:06:48dressed in a tailored dark suit.

01:06:50He casually twirled a pen.

01:06:51He oozed quiet,

01:06:53commanding power.

01:06:54When I walked in,

01:06:55he barely looked up.

01:06:57Miss Bennett,

01:06:58please sit.

01:06:59I took my seat and stared into his eyes.

01:07:02Leo,

01:07:03do you really have to take it this far?

01:07:06Business is business.

01:07:07Let's keep it professional.

01:07:09On behalf of the Valos Black Crown,

01:07:11I'm making a formal offer

01:07:12to acquire Nova Group's European division.

01:07:14The terms are generous,

01:07:1530% above market value.

01:07:18Dream on.

01:07:19Leo let out a low laugh

01:07:20and leaned back in his chair.

01:07:21His eyes held no warmth.

01:07:23Miss Bennett,

01:07:24my mother is Serafina Valos.

01:07:26I represent only Valos interests.

01:07:29You'd better think carefully.

01:07:32You can't afford to say no.

01:07:34He rose,

01:07:35straightened his jacket,

01:07:36and walked out with his assistant.

01:07:38When he passed me,

01:07:39he didn't even break stride.

01:07:40I stayed in the empty conference room,

01:07:42watching him walk away.

01:07:44My chest tightened with a dull ache.

01:07:46Yet deep down,

01:07:47I couldn't shake the feeling

01:07:48that something was off.

01:07:49His eyes were too clear.

01:07:50He didn't seem to truly hate us.

01:07:52The situation grew worse by the day.

01:07:54The Castellano elders

01:07:55could no longer sit idly by.

01:07:57They urged Luca to make peace,

01:07:59seed the Mediterranean ports,

01:08:00and give Serafina a stake in Nova Group.

01:08:03Sir,

01:08:03if this continues,

01:08:04we'll lose everything.

01:08:05Serafina is unstoppable.

01:08:07We can't beat her.

01:08:08Luca slammed his fist onto the table.

01:08:10The heavy mahogany desk thrummed.

01:08:12We can't beat her.

01:08:13We Castellanos have held our ground

01:08:14in America for decades.

01:08:16We don't surrender.

01:08:17Anyone who dares mention peace again

01:08:19will answer to the family.

01:08:20The elders withdrew sheepishly.

01:08:22That night,

01:08:22I treated the wound on Luca's hand.

01:08:24He'd hit the table too hard,

01:08:26reopening an old wound.

01:08:27Blood had seeped through the bandages.

01:08:29Actually,

01:08:30I began softly.

01:08:31If things are really that bad,

01:08:33we can back down for now.

01:08:34He held my hand.

01:08:36No.

01:08:36His eyes firm.

01:08:37I won't let you or Sophia suffer.

01:08:39I didn't try to persuade him again.

01:08:41I simply rested my head lightly

01:08:43against his shoulder.

01:08:44Just then,

01:08:45the assistant pushed open the door.

01:08:46Sir,

01:08:46ma'am,

01:08:47Intel came in on next week's

01:08:48global business summit.

01:08:49Serafina will officially announce

01:08:50her U.S. market entry.

01:08:51The global business summit

01:08:52was held in New York.

01:08:53As the head of the Valos family,

01:08:55Serafina was the center of attention.

01:08:57At the reception,

01:08:58I was speaking with several partners

01:09:00while Sophia stood beside me.

01:09:01Suddenly,

01:09:02a gasp came from behind us.

01:09:04A full glass of red wine

01:09:05splashed all over Sophia.

01:09:07Oh,

01:09:07I'm so sorry.

01:09:09My hand slipped.

01:09:10Clara pulled out a handkerchief,

01:09:11but made no move to offer it.

01:09:13Some people simply don't belong

01:09:14at an event like this.

01:09:16You were just standing in my way.

01:09:17It's only natural I didn't see you.

01:09:19Sophia trembled with anger.

01:09:21She was about to defend herself

01:09:22when Leo walked over.

01:09:24He stepped smoothly to Clara's side,

01:09:25draping his suit jacket

01:09:26over her shoulders.

01:09:28Then he frowned at Sophia.

01:09:30Apologize.

01:09:31Don't embarrass yourself here.

01:09:32Sophia stared at him in disbelief.

01:09:34Leo.

01:09:35Oh, tears welling in her eyes.

01:09:37She threw the wine at me.

01:09:39I said, apologize.

01:09:42He repeated,

01:09:43not giving an inch.

01:09:44I couldn't take it anymore.

01:09:45I stepped forward

01:09:46and slapped Leo across the face.

01:09:48The sharp crack echoed

01:09:49through the entire hall.

01:09:50From the nearby balcony,

01:09:52Serafina watched it all unfold,

01:09:54a smug smile on her lips.

01:09:56After the summit,

01:09:56the situation spiraled

01:09:58completely out of control.

01:09:59Within three days,

01:10:00three of the Castellano family's

01:10:02underground casinos

01:10:03on the East Coast

01:10:04were raided by the police.

01:10:05Not a single man inside

01:10:06made it out.

01:10:07It was obvious

01:10:08there was a rat in the family.

01:10:10Someone had fed them

01:10:10the exact locations and times.

01:10:12Luca hadn't slept in three days,

01:10:14locking himself in his study

01:10:15to plan a counterstrike.

01:10:17The ashtray was piled high

01:10:18with cigarette butts.

01:10:19Early on the fourth day,

01:10:21he was seized

01:10:21by a violent coughing fit.

01:10:23He covered his mouth,

01:10:24blood seeping through his fingers.

01:10:27Luca!

01:10:27I rushed over to support him.

01:10:30I'm fine.

01:10:31He wiped his mouth

01:10:31and waved me off.

01:10:32Just an old condition.

01:10:34I forced him to lie down

01:10:35on the sofa

01:10:35and took over the planning.

01:10:37At dawn,

01:10:38I stood before the war map.

01:10:39I stared at the red zone's territories

01:10:41we were losing by the hour.

01:10:43It felt like a boulder

01:10:44was crushing my chest.

01:10:45Then someone from the tech department

01:10:46rushed in with a deathly pale face.

01:10:49Ma'am,

01:10:49we've got a massive breach.

01:10:51The Core Tech database

01:10:52has been compromised.

01:10:53The leak traced

01:10:54straight back to Leo.

01:10:55The logs showed

01:10:56he used his clearance,

01:10:57sending core data

01:10:58straight to Valos.

01:10:59I arranged to meet him

01:11:00at an old warehouse

01:11:01by the docks.

01:11:02It was a place

01:11:03where I used to take him

01:11:04to play when he was little.

01:11:05He arrived on time.

01:11:06Dressed in black,

01:11:07he stood in the shadows tall,

01:11:09but looking like

01:11:10a complete stranger.

01:11:11So it really was you?

01:11:13Yes.

01:11:13He admitted it

01:11:14without hesitation,

01:11:15a cold smile

01:11:16curling at his lips.

01:11:17That was nothing.

01:11:19Nor a worse is yet to come.

01:11:21Out of respect for 20 years,

01:11:22I'll leave you intact then.

01:11:23I stared at that face

01:11:24so familiar,

01:11:25yet completely alien.

01:11:27Trembling with rage,

01:11:28I raised my hand,

01:11:30stopping just inches

01:11:31from his cheek.

01:11:31But I couldn't bring myself

01:11:33to strike him.

01:11:34You really don't care

01:11:35about what we had?

01:11:37What we had?

01:11:38Valos' blood runs in my veins

01:11:40and that's all that matters.

01:11:41He turned and strode away

01:11:42without looking back.

01:11:43I sank to the ground,

01:11:45tears finally spilling over.

01:11:46But the feeling

01:11:47that something was off

01:11:48only grew stronger.

01:11:49I'd seen a flicker

01:11:50of something else in his eyes.

01:11:52Within a week,

01:11:52everything collapsed.

01:11:53Nova Group's stock

01:11:55plunged day after day.

01:11:56The board teamed up

01:11:57to force me out,

01:11:58demanding I step down

01:11:59and accept Serafina's

01:12:00buyout terms.

01:12:01Panic swept through

01:12:02the company.

01:12:03Executives resigned

01:12:04in droves,

01:12:05taking our biggest clients

01:12:06with them.

01:12:06The Castellano family

01:12:08was in even worse shape.

01:12:09Several Capos

01:12:10turned traitor,

01:12:11taking their territories

01:12:12and defecting

01:12:13to the Valos family.

01:12:14The rest were wavering too.

01:12:16Quite a few

01:12:16had secretly contacted

01:12:17the other side

01:12:18to talk about

01:12:19switching sides.

01:12:20When Luca found out,

01:12:21he had the two ringleaders

01:12:22executed in front

01:12:23of the whole family.

01:12:25The bloody display

01:12:25stopped the defections

01:12:27for now.

01:12:27But it was just a band-aid

01:12:28on a bullet wound.

01:12:29Our power had already

01:12:30been cut nearly in half.

01:12:32That night,

01:12:33Luca sat in his study

01:12:34for a long time,

01:12:35staring at the family

01:12:36crest on the wall.

01:12:37Nora,

01:12:38if it comes to it,

01:12:39I'll arrange for you

01:12:40and Sofia to leave.

01:12:41Go to Switzerland.

01:12:42We have assets there.

01:12:43I'm not leaving.

01:12:44I walked over

01:12:44and hugged him from behind.

01:12:46We leave together

01:12:47or stay together?

01:12:48Family never parts.

01:12:49He took my hand.

01:12:50His palm was burning hot

01:12:52and it trembled slightly.

01:12:53Serafina's final ultimatum

01:12:55was delivered to the estate.

01:12:56It summoned Luca and me

01:12:57to the abandoned docks

01:12:59Warehouse 3

01:12:59for final talks.

01:13:00If we refused,

01:13:02she'd order a full wipeout

01:13:03of every remaining Castellano.

01:13:05No one would be spared.

01:13:06Everyone begged Luca

01:13:07not to go.

01:13:08It was obviously a death trap.

01:13:10Luca looked at Sofia and me

01:13:11in silence for a long time.

01:13:13There's no avoiding this.

01:13:14What Serafani wants is me

01:13:16and everything

01:13:17the Castellanos have built.

01:13:18We can hide for a while

01:13:19but not forever.

01:13:20I'm going with you.

01:13:21No, it's too dangerous.

01:13:22Luca.

01:13:23I looked into his eyes.

01:13:24We're married.

01:13:26If we die, we die together.

01:13:27He looked at me

01:13:28for a long moment.

01:13:29Finally, he nodded.

01:13:31On the day we set out,

01:13:32we brought only six

01:13:33of our most loyal men.

01:13:35Sofia insisted on coming too.

01:13:37She said she wanted

01:13:37to see Leo.

01:13:38We couldn't talk her out of it,

01:13:40so we had to bring her along.

01:13:41As we drove toward

01:13:42the abandoned docks,

01:13:43thick storm clouds

01:13:45choked the sky.

01:13:46I knew this fight

01:13:47would decide all our fates.

01:13:48We stepped into Warehouse 3.

01:13:50Instantly,

01:13:51the heavy iron doors

01:13:52slammed shut behind us.

01:13:53Instantly,

01:13:54searchlights from

01:13:55the surrounding platforms

01:13:56blinded us.

01:13:57Armed men poured out

01:13:58from the shadows.

01:13:59Countless gun barrels

01:14:00locked onto us in unison.

01:14:02Serafina slowly descended

01:14:03the stairs from the platform above.

01:14:05Leo and Clara

01:14:05followed behind her.

01:14:07Luca,

01:14:07my dear brother,

01:14:09you actually showed up.

01:14:10She smiled,

01:14:11her voice dripping

01:14:12with triumph.

01:14:13I told you,

01:14:14sooner or later,

01:14:15all of this would be mine.

01:14:17Luca stepped in front

01:14:18of Sofia and me,

01:14:19shielding us

01:14:19as he drew his gun.

01:14:21Our men raised their weapons,

01:14:22forming a protective circle

01:14:23around us,

01:14:24but we were completely

01:14:25outnumbered.

01:14:26Clara stepped out

01:14:27and strutted over to Sofia,

01:14:29chin tilted up.

01:14:30She taunted.

01:14:31Scared yet?

01:14:32Get on your knees

01:14:33and kiss my shoes.

01:14:35Maybe I'll ask my mom

01:14:36to spare your pathetic life.

01:14:38Sofia bit her lip

01:14:39and stared back

01:14:40at her stubbornly.

01:14:41She didn't say a word.

01:14:42Serafina raised one hand.

01:14:44Her smile vanished.

01:14:45Kill them.

01:14:46The mercenaries

01:14:46cocked their weapons,

01:14:47ready to fire.

01:14:48Time slowed.

01:14:49Luca threw himself

01:14:50over Sofia and me.

01:14:51He closed his eyes,

01:14:53ready to die for us.

01:14:54Right then,

01:14:55Leo pressed his gun

01:14:56to Serafina's temple.

01:14:57Nobody move!

01:14:59Leo keyed his radio.

01:15:00Move in.

01:15:01Instantly,

01:15:02soldiers stormed the warehouse,

01:15:03surrounding Serafina's men.

01:15:05The entire warehouse

01:15:06fell silent.

01:15:07Serafina's expression

01:15:08changed instantly.

01:15:09Leo!

01:15:10She shouted furiously.

01:15:11What are you doing?

01:15:13Have you lost your mind?

01:15:14I'm perfectly sane.

01:15:16Leo's gaze was icy

01:15:17as it swept over the room

01:15:18before finally settling on us.

01:15:20I told you,

01:15:21no one lays a hand

01:15:22on a Castellano.

01:15:23I stared at him in shock.

01:15:24My heart lurched,

01:15:25and for a moment,

01:15:26I forgot to breathe.

01:15:27Luca froze as well.

01:15:29Then a spark of hope

01:15:29flared in his eyes.

01:15:31Clara screamed in terror,

01:15:32crying out for her mom.

01:15:33Leo turned his head

01:15:34slightly toward us.

01:15:35When he spoke again,

01:15:36his voice was softer,

01:15:37laced with a quiet apology.

01:15:39I'm sorry, Dad.

01:15:40Mom,

01:15:41I kept you waiting too long.

01:15:43His words struck

01:15:44like a thunderclap.

01:15:45The mercenaries

01:15:45on the platforms exchanged,

01:15:47confused,

01:15:48panicked glances,

01:15:49holding Serafina's hostage.

01:15:51Leo slowly backed toward us.

01:15:52His loyal men

01:15:53turned their guns

01:15:54on Serafina's crew.

01:15:55You,

01:15:57you planned this all along?

01:15:58Serafina was trembling

01:15:59with fury

01:16:00as she stared at him

01:16:01in disbelief.

01:16:02Luca abruptly

01:16:03turned toward Leo.

01:16:04I left with you

01:16:05to infiltrate Valos.

01:16:06I mapped your power,

01:16:07hidden channels,

01:16:07and planted rats.

01:16:08Then he looked at me.

01:16:09The attacks looked brutal,

01:16:11but they were mostly for show.

01:16:12The leaked tech was fake too.

01:16:14I needed you to think

01:16:15we were losing ground

01:16:15so you'd lower your guard.

01:16:17Tears welled in my eyes.

01:16:18I was furious,

01:16:19yet my heart ached for him.

01:16:21No wonder the attacks

01:16:21looked brutal,

01:16:22but never truly crippled us.

01:16:24No wonder there was

01:16:25always something hidden

01:16:25in his eyes

01:16:26when he said cruel things.

01:16:28My boy had carried

01:16:29the weight of it all alone.

01:16:30You dare betray me?

01:16:32I'm your biological mother!

01:16:34Mother?

01:16:36You gave birth to me,

01:16:37but you never raised me.

01:16:38I did say I have

01:16:40only one mother,

01:16:41but it isn't you.

01:16:43It's Nora Bennett.

01:16:45Before he even finished,

01:16:46a deafening roar

01:16:47erupted outside the warehouse.

01:16:49Right on cue,

01:16:50acting on Leo's intel,

01:16:51Luca's men moved in

01:16:52from the perimeter

01:16:53and counter-surrounded

01:16:54the harbor.

01:16:55Caught in the crossfire,

01:16:56the Valos mercenaries

01:16:57instantly fell into disarray.

01:16:59That's impossible.

01:17:01My plans were all

01:17:02strictly confidential.

01:17:04I fed every single

01:17:05one of your plans to dad,

01:17:06including every covert network

01:17:08you had hidden

01:17:08across the Americas.

01:17:09Clara collapsed to the ground,

01:17:11sobbing violently.

01:17:12All her arrogance was gone.

01:17:14Serafina stared

01:17:15at the forces closing in.

01:17:16Watching her empire crumble,

01:17:18she swayed,

01:17:19barely standing.

01:17:20The firefight didn't last long.

01:17:21Serafina was placed

01:17:22under house arrest.

01:17:23The Valos' operations

01:17:25across the Americas

01:17:26were completely dismantled,

01:17:27and every rat

01:17:28hidden within the

01:17:29Castellano family

01:17:30was rooted out.

01:17:31Clara was deported

01:17:32and permanently banned

01:17:33from entering the country.

01:17:34Mrs. Marsh,

01:17:35the housekeeper,

01:17:36was banished for life

01:17:37for betraying the family

01:17:39and aiding the enemy.

01:17:40By the time it was all over,

01:17:41dawn was breaking.

01:17:42The morning sea breeze

01:17:43swept in from the harbor,

01:17:45cool and salty.

01:17:46Leo stood in the early sunlight,

01:17:47dust still clinging

01:17:48to his clothes.

01:17:49He looked at Luca and me,

01:17:50suddenly awkward

01:17:51like a kid waiting

01:17:52to be scolded.

01:17:53Luca walked over

01:17:53and patted his shoulder firmly.

01:17:55Good man.

01:17:56Just two words.

01:17:57His voice was hoarse,

01:17:58but thick with pride.

01:17:59I couldn't hold back

01:18:00any longer.

01:18:01I went over

01:18:01and wrapped my arms

01:18:02around Leo.

01:18:03Tears streamed down my face.

01:18:04You silly boy.

01:18:07Why didn't you tell us?

01:18:09If I told you,

01:18:09it wouldn't look real.

01:18:10He said quietly.

01:18:11He hugged me back gently.

01:18:13Serafina's too smart.

01:18:14We couldn't risk

01:18:15a single slip-up.

01:18:15Sophia rushed over,

01:18:17hugging his waist.

01:18:18She tearfully pounded his chest,

01:18:19calling him a jerk.

01:18:20Back at the Castellano estate,

01:18:22life slowly returned to normal.

01:18:23The Nova Group crisis was over.

01:18:25The stock rebounded

01:18:26and lost markets

01:18:27were slowly reclaimed.

01:18:29The Castellano territories

01:18:30were gradually cleaned up.

01:18:32After surviving the storm,

01:18:33the family had become

01:18:34more united than ever.

01:18:35Serafina was ultimately

01:18:36deported in disgrace.

01:18:38For the rest of her life,

01:18:39she would never again

01:18:40set foot in the Americas.

01:18:41One evening,

01:18:42the family had dinner

01:18:43together on the terrace.

01:18:44Leo briefed Luca

01:18:45on the cleanup,

01:18:46calm and decisive.

01:18:47Sophia chattered about school,

01:18:49chiming in to tease

01:18:50Leo's convincing act.

01:18:51He'd broken her heart

01:18:52for weeks.

01:18:53I sat nearby,

01:18:54watching my family.

01:18:55A deep, quiet peace

01:18:56settled over me.

01:18:57Luca reached over

01:18:58and took my hand.

01:18:59His palm was warm.

01:19:00He asked softly,

01:19:02What's on your mind?

01:19:03I turned to him and smiled.

01:19:05Nothing.

01:19:06Just glad we're all together.

01:19:07A sea breeze drifted

01:19:09through the rose garden.

01:19:10Soft lights glowed

01:19:11and life was finally at peace.

01:19:13The storm of blood and betrayal

01:19:14finally ended in love

01:19:16and protection.

After My Divorce I Became the Godfather's Wife | Part 2 (Ending)

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