His Innocent Sera novel Chapter 72

NINE YEARS LATER

The skyscrapers of Italy lined the horizon, challenging the birds' sovereign claim to the sky. Ambition carved in steel and glass, those shimmering buildings stood tall as a testament to their owner's power and force. The shadow they casted over the city wasn't just physical. It was an inspiring sight- the one that would make a dreamer dream bigger, a hustler grind harder, a conqueror reach for higher. And amidst this city of power and influence, his building soared above the rest, not merely challenging but owning the sky.

"Nate, Erlando is here," Dave announced. Nate looked away from the view and turned around to face Dave, who stood waiting for his response. Dave had grown accustomed to his cold, unfeeling eyes now. The only spark ever lit them was pure, seething rage, that too was a rare occurrence. It was as though she had shut off every emotion in him before leaving. If he was bad before, he was now something far more terrifying.

"Bring him inside," Nate said, making his way to the chair. Dave left. Nate claimed the chair, aka his throne, that marked his supreme authority over the entire Italy. It was his Kingdom, his empire, where mercy was a forgotten myth. Where rebels were crushed and enemies were slaughtered with utmost brutality.

"Ciao, Signor Serano," Elrando greeted as he walked in. His mouth curling into a half smile that conveyed anything but goodwill.

Nate turned his gaze upon him. Silver eyes studied the visitor with unconcealed disdain, but only a fool would miss the menace lurking beneath them.

"Bueno Dias, Elrando," Nate responded, a cocky smirk found its way on his lips. It was a tight slap wrapped in a formal greeting. A Spanish man seated on Italy's throne— nothing wounded Italian mafia lords' ego more than this. The edges of Elrando's smile grew stiff, suggesting he had hit a nerve.

"Must be a good reason you're here," Nate mocked before offering him a seat.

"As you already know, we’ve seized your multiple shipments. Now we’re offering peace. Hand over your two warehouses, and we’ll consider it settled," Elrando proposed, eyeing him with keen interest.

Nate didn't look serious, if anything, he looked amused.

"So you came all the way here to blackmail me. What made you think I am up for negotiation?" Nate questioned. A flicker of frustration crossed Elrando's face. His calm demeanor was infuriating.

"You have no choice. We've got your shipments and your men," Erlando reminded him but Nate just stared back, calm and composed, like none of it mattered.

"Where have you hid your bastard of a leader?" Nate asked in a mocking tone. Bruno had vanished ever since he cracked down on his gang.

"My dad isn't a bastard. He is our pride," Erlando remarked, looking affronted.

"Your dad is a top-tier bastard who uses his children for a shield. He fled at the first chance he got and left you behind to clean after his mess. That bastard sent you to die and you walked right into it," Nate declared.