I used to be a top architect.

In the third year of my marriage, I gave up my blueprints because Dante hated that my career put me in the sights of rival families.

Professor Miles had lamented my decision.

"Nora, you are the most gifted student I've ever had."

"Is a political marriage worth giving up your dreams for?"

Back then, for the survival of my family's dwindling influence, for a fragile peace, I had nodded, guilty but resolute.

"I'm sorry, Professor. I need to survive. Ideals are a luxury."

"I believed Dante Moretti was worth the sacrifice."

My mentor didn't press me.

He didn't ask any more questions.

He just sent me a single text.

"If you ever need a way out, you know who to call."

Yes.

It was time for a new beginning.

The project was in a war-torn region of the Middle East.

Before I left, I had to formalize my departure from the family.

I went to the family's Consigliere, a shrewd old fox of a lawyer.

Once the agreement was drafted, I arranged to meet Dante.

The moment he saw the documents, he shot to his feet.

"I don't have time for these little games, Nora."

I had expected as much.

With a nod from me, the lawyer also stood.

"Dante, we have evidence of your private dealings with the Colombians."

"If you refuse to sign, this evidence will land on Don Moretti's desk."

"And when that happens, it won't just be your position on the line."

Dante's face darkened.

His star had been rising in the family, and he was hungry for more power.

"Nora, are you sure you want to play this card?"

"I'm sure."

I lifted my chin, my gaze unwavering.

Suddenly, Dante smirked and calmly pulled a folded paper from his pocket.

It was my pregnancy test.

He glanced at his watch, then spent the next ten minutes coldly laying out his terms.

His voice was cold from start to finish, as if he were negotiating a lucrative deal.

"Nora, you've already had two miscarriages."

"The doctors said this might be your last chance for a child."

"You're two months along. Are you sure you want our child born without a father's protection? To be a target for every enemy we have?"