The life of the underworld was something Ashley had dreamed of escaping all her life. Born as a bastard from an affair between an underworld kingpin and a prostitute, Ashley was meant to die even before she was born. The only reason she survived was that her father thought she was a boy.

From a young age, she understood that if she wanted to survive in this world of violence—on top of her father’s wife and daughter’s schemes—she had to be useful.

So, she made herself a promise: one day, she would escape this world.

Ashley almost succeeded… until her father found her again and thrust her into a marriage of convenience with his rival, Dominion, in his beloved daughter’s place.

Everyone in the underworld knew Dominion.

They were cruel, organized, and simply spawns of evil. And the man who stood above that power, Luciano, was said to be downright diabolical. Just their name alone could make anyone tremble.

And this organization was where Ashley now had to survive.

To make matters worse, the marriage also came with a child — Luciano’s mute heir.

Forced to become the wife of one of the most violent and powerful underworld organizations, and the mother of its future leader, Ashley made a vow.

“No matter what, I’ll escape this place!”

But she would soon realize it wouldn’t be as simple as that. Not when the feared members of Dominion clung to her feet, begging,

“Madam, don’t go!”

And when the mute stepson finally spoke, “Mommy, if you’re leaving, please take me with you.”

Finally, her diabolical, obsessive, and utterly territorial husband said,

“I’ve packed our things. Where should we go?”

***
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A moment of stillness fell over the hall once more as everyone watched Lucian stand there like an innocent man. Meanwhile, the faint sound of wine dripping from Carmella echoed in the background.


"Pffft—" someone in the crowd stifled a laugh, snapping everyone out of their shock.


Others followed, chuckling at the looks on Carmella's and Isabella's faces. Just moments ago, they had all thought Ashley might extend them some undeserved grace for whatever reason. But this world was unforgiving and humiliating someone once didn't always feel like enough.


It might be petty, but it still felt like justice.


Shyaan cleared her throat, stopping herself from laughing. Then she glanced at the guards nearby.


"Take them away," she ordered gracefully.


Chapter 107 - I would’ve done it if you didn’t.