Zayden entered the study. It was still too early for their discussion—the sun hadn't even risen properly. Silence hung over the palace, heavy and absolute. Zayden didn't mind. Some secrets needed to stay quiet.
Matteo was already there, sitting stiffly in the chair. The moment Zayden stepped in, Matteo stood and greeted him.
"Boss?"
Zayden nodded and sat in the main rocking chair at the head of the table, gesturing for him to sit.
Matteo didn't say anything. He sat quietly, fingers resting on his knees, waiting.
Zayden leaned forward, eyes sharp in the dim light.
"Tell me in detail. What exactly happened?"
Matteo shifted slightly, nervous.
"Boss… Silas." The name echoed in the silent room.
"He went to take help from the other mafias. He blames you for stealing his bride."
Zayden's jaw tightened, but he said nothing.
"Those mafias were furious. They disturbed the path of our men tonight."
"Who's included?" Zayden asked, voice low.
Matteo shifted again, anxiety clear in his posture.
"Boss… all of them. Every mafia whose border touches our territory. And all of them who've clashed with us before. Everyone."
"They want to force war on us. Together."
He swallowed. "But thanks to our fellow allies, they stopped them for now."
Zayden nodded once, slow.
"Okay. Tell me—how much power do they have?"
Matteo froze for a moment, then blurted in a panic,
"Boss, we can't fight them for just a single omega! The power we built will fall if we go to war with them!"
Zayden's expression didn't change.
"Shut up. I didn't ask for your suggestion, Matteo. Stay in your limit."
Matteo flinched and lowered his head immediately.
"Sorry, Boss. I didn't mean to—"
"Enough."
Zayden cut him off coldly.
"When's the meeting?"
"Sir, it's tomorrow at 2:00 AM."
"Okay. Get everything ready. We'll go tonight."
"Okay, Boss. I'll complete the preparations."
"Good." Zayden stood from his chair.
Matteo followed, bowing lightly as Zayden passed him. But at the door, Zayden stopped. He didn't turn fully—just glanced back, his gaze heavy.
Matteo froze under that stare.
"What is it, Boss? Do you need anything else?"
Zayden's voice was quiet, but it carried weight.
"He's not just an omega. He's my family, Matteo. Respect him. I won't tolerate this mistake again."
Matteo bowed deeper.
"I… I understand, Boss. I'm sorry. I already said I didn't mean it."
"You want to pay for your mistake?"
Zayden smirked, the corner of his mouth lifting slightly.
Matteo stared at him. It was the first time he'd been cornered like this. He started to regret every word he'd spoken.
"Of course, Boss. Is there anything I can do to make up for it?"
Zayden smiled lightly.
"Then arrange my marriage there. We're getting married."
"What?!"
Matteo's eyes went wide with shock—surprise, and something else.
Fear. The fear of someone standing under power far greater than his own.
He hesitated.
"But Boss, your father—"
Zayden stepped closer and patted his shoulder.
"I already told you. It's your repayment."
Matteo swallowed hard. Determination overcame his fear. He straightened, voice steady now.
"Don't worry, Boss. Even if you're asking for my death, I'll die happily."
Zayden stared at him for a long moment.
"That's why you're my secretary. But don't worry—I won't let that happen. Just arrange the marriage. I'll handle everything else. If someone troubles you, tell me."
"Thanks, Boss."
Matteo bowed again, lower this time.
Zayden patted his shoulder once more.
"Good luck."
And with that, he left the study.
His steps were quiet, but his mind wasn't.
He had to make sure his bride agreed to this marriage.
Because if Caspian said no…
Zayden wasn't sure what he'd do.
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