Chapter 8 - The War for the Docks
Morning came with the harsh reality of mafia war.
Damon was gone from the bed by dawn, leaving a handwritten note on her pillow alongside a silver key to the master suite: Stay inside. The house is locked down. You are safe.
Alina wrapped herself in Damon’s heavy silk robe and walked to the window. Down in the courtyard, dozens of armed men were loading weapons and getting into black armored sedans.
Sloan entered through the private servants' entrance, carrying a tray of hot tea and fresh pastries. Her eyes were wide with awe as she looked around the luxurious master suite, then at Alina wearing the Pakhan's robe.
"Well, princess," Sloan said softly, setting the tray on the bedside table. "It seems my predictions were wrong. You aren't a nun after all."
Alina flushed crimson, pulling the robe tighter around her shoulders. "Sloan... it's complicated."
"It's not complicated at all," Sloan smiled warmly, placing a reassuring hand on Alina’s arm. "I've worked in this house for four years. I've seen Damon Vulkoff execute men without blinking. But last night? When those men grabbed you? I saw him cry out your name like a man who lost his soul. He loves you, Alina."
Alina’s heart skipped a beat. Love? Could a man like Damon truly love a simple maid?
Before she could dwell on the thought, heavy explosions echoed in the distance from the direction of the city harbor.
The Voronin family had launched an all-out assault on the Vulkoff shipping terminals, attempting to crush Damon’s stronghold while he was distracted.
For twelve agonizing hours, Alina waited in the master suite, listening to the radio chatter on the security desk.
Reports came in fast and chaotic: “Pakhan’s team engaged at Pier 4!” “Voronin heavy weapons unit pushed back!” “Vulkoff takes the harbor!”
At midnight, the heavy iron doors of the bedroom finally creaked open.
Damon stood in the doorway, covered in soot, rain, and blood. His vest was torn, but his eyes were bright with absolute victory.
He looked across the room and saw Alina standing by the window, waiting for him.
May you like
He dropped his weapons to the floor and opened his arms. Alina ran across the room, throwing herself into his embrace, burying her face in his neck as he lifted her off her feet, spinning her around in the dark room.
"It's over," Damon growled against her skin, his voice thick with emotion. "The Voronins are finished. The city is ours."
