The Mafia Queen's Gambit

In the VIP lounge, I gazed at the city's vibrant nightscape, lost in thought. A tall figure stepped through the door. Jones handed me a glass of red wine, his tone gentle. "You handled things brilliantly back there." I took the glass, my fingertips brushing its cool surface, and met his deep gaze. "Are you here to plead for Roderick?" My voice stayed even, testing his stance. He chuckled lightly. "I'm not foolish enough to waste words on someone who keeps messing up. He and Erica nearly ruined both our families' reputations." He glanced out the window, a chill flickering in his eyes. "I should thank you for keeping this engagement banquet from becoming a farce." I didn't respond. My phone rang—it was my father. I answered respectfully. "Dad, there was a small hiccup at the banquet, but I've handled it." A pause came from the other end, then a weathered but firm voice spoke. "Roderick's father and I saved each other's lives on the battlefield. I hoped this marriage would help his child grow the family business. But Roderick has let me down. Sophia, as you suggested, let's pause the engagement." It seemed my dad had learned of Roderick's recent foolishness. I nodded obediently, saying nothing more. "What about the ongoing cooperation with the Hudson family?" Jones spoke up, his gaze settling on me. "Leave the partnership to Sophia's discretion." M dad's voice carried unwavering trust. "She's mature enough to take my place and handle everything." After hanging up, only the sound of our breathing filled the room. Jones looked at me intensely, as if he'd made up his mind. "Follow your heart. Whatever you decide, I'll support you." I met his gaze. This man, known for his stoic reserve, now had a warmth in his eyes that nearly overwhelmed me. My grip tightened on the phone, my heart racing as a bold idea took shape. I took a deep breath and pulled out the couple's ring meant for my finger, placing it gently before him. "Jones," my voice trembled. Proposing to a man was a daring choice. "Will you marry me?" Jones's pupils contracted, his hand holding the wine glass freezing midair. He stared at the gleaming ring, then at my flushed ears, his throat bobbing unconsciously. The usually composed man seemed flustered. His voice was hoarse. "Do you know what you're saying?" "I do." I held his gaze. "I'm done settling. You're the only one I want to choose." Jones suddenly reached out, pulling me into his arms. His broad, warm chest carried a faint cedar scent. "No regrets?" He picked up the ring, gently taking my hand, a flicker of anticipation in his eyes. His face drew closer, his masculine presence enveloping me, and I tilted my head, closing my eyes. Just as our lips were about to meet, a shrill ringtone shattered the moment. I glanced at the caller ID— it was Molly. I answered, my tone laced with concern. "Molly, what's up?" Instead of her familiar gentle voice, I heard Molly's sobbing scream. "Sophia! Don't come! It's dangerous!" A muffled thud of a blow came through the receiver, followed by a man's rough threat. "One hour, westside abandoned warehouse, no weapons. Be late or try anything funny, and this old lady's done for." My heart lurched, my hand trembling on the phone. "Who are you?" "Don't ask who I am. Come alone, or you'll be collecting her body." The call cut off abruptly, the dial tone coiling around my heart like a viper. I grabbed my coat, ready to leave, but a warm hand gripped my wrist. Jones's brows knitted, his eyes full of worry. "It's too dangerous. I can't let you go alone." I took a deep breath, my gaze firm, and gently freed my wrist. "Don't worry. I'll be fine." I turned and walked out. As I passed my assistant waiting at the door, I lowered my voice and issued quick orders. "Follow the backup plan. Have the soldiers take positions around the warehouse, stay hidden, and wait for my signal."