Boston’s most lethal underworld king had made an unbelievable vow: whoever could help his four-year-old son speak again would receive half of his criminal empire—and become his wife.

My bold display at the summit bought us time, but it didn't buy us absolute loyalty. In the underworld, respect is paid in blood.

Two days later, Julian, Leo, and I were heading to a private park outside the city. It was supposed to be a quiet afternoon away from the estate. We rode in the back of a heavily armored SUV, Marcus driving, with two escort vehicles flanking us.

Leo was sitting between Julian and me, chattering excitedly about a book he had read. I smiled, feeling a warmth in my chest I hadn't felt since Mia died. We felt like a real family.

Suddenly, a massive garbage truck pulled out from an alley, completely blocking the intersection ahead.

“Ambush!” Marcus roared, slamming on the brakes.

Before the SUV could reverse, two black vans slammed into our escort vehicles, pinning us in. Men in tactical gear poured out, opening fire on our car with automatic weapons.

The deafening roar of bullets hitting the bulletproof glass made Leo scream.

“Get down!” Julian yelled, throwing his massive body over me and Leo, shielding us both.

“Who are they?” I yelled over the gunfire.

“New York,” Julian growled, drawing his weapon. “The Italians are making a move. They think my syndicate is divided because of our engagement.”

The glass of the SUV was holding, but it was beginning to spiderweb. We couldn't sit here forever.

“Marcus, Ram the truck!” Julian ordered.

“It’s too heavy, boss! We’re boxed in!”

Julian looked at me. His eyes were wild with fear—not for himself, but for us. He kissed my forehead, then Leo’s. “Stay down, Maya. No matter what happens, keep him on the floor.”

“Julian, no!” I grabbed his arm.

“I have to draw their fire so Marcus can get you out,” he said, his voice breaking.

Before I could stop him, Julian kicked the back door open, rolling out onto the pavement, returning fire with lethal accuracy. The attackers immediately redirected their weapons toward him.

“Drive!” Julian roared at Marcus.