SIXTY ONE

Days later, Marco still laid on the hospital bed, his leg heavily bandaged and immobilized . Marco's condition had stabilized but he was far from recovering fully. The doctors had been clear: he would walk again, but with difficulty.

The door creaked open, and Mia walked in. Her usually confident stride was subdued, her expression a mix of concern and frustration. Marco tried to sit up as he saw Mia, wincing at the pain that shot through his leg.

“Mia,” he said, his voice rough. “What are you doing here?”

Mia moved closer, her heels clicking softly on the tiled floor. “I came to see how you’re doing Marco. You look a hell.”

Marco grunted, trying to adjust himself more comfortably. “Thanks for the compliment. I’m sure I feel worse than I look.”

Mia pulled a chair closer and sat down, her eyes scanning his face. “The doctors say you’ll walk again, but it’ll be tough.”

Marco’s jaw tightened. “Yeah. I know. I heard them. But I'm not worried about that right now, I have bigger problems.”

Mia's gaze sharpened, “Like what? Getting yourself killed trying to get revenge on Lucas?”

Marco's eyes blazed with anger, “You don't understand Mia. This isn't just about me. It's about respect , power. Lucas made a fool out of me . He needs to pay.”

Mia sighed, leaning back in her chair, “Marco, listen to yourself, you’re lying here half crippled , and all you can think about is revenge? Lucas is powerful . He has resources, connections. You’re not in any position to take him on right now.”

Marco’s fist clenched, “I don't care. I won't let him win. He needs to know he can't mess with me and get away with it.”

Mia leaned forward, her voice softer but firm. “And what about your men? The ones who are still loyal to you? They need a leader who’s thinking straight, not one who’s blinded by rage.”

Marco's expression faltered for a moment, “I can't just let go, Mia.”

Mia placed a hand on his arm, “I’m not saying you should. But you need to be smart about this. Recover first . Build your strength. Then, if you still want to go after Lucas , do it with a clear head and a solid plan.”

Marco looked away, his jaw working as he fought to control his emotions. Finally, he nodded, though his eyes still burned with determination. “Fine, I’ll bide my time. But Lucas will surely pay for what he’s done.”

Mia nodded, squeezing his arm gently. “Just promise me, you’ll think this through. Don't throw your life away over this.”

Marco met her gaze, his expression hardened, “I promise . But this isn't over.”

Mia stood up, giving him one last look before turning to leave, “Take care of yourself , Marco. You're going to need all the strength you can get.”

As the door closed behind her, Marco lay back, starting at the ceiling . His mind was a whirlwind of anger and pain, but Mia’s words echoed in his head. He would recover, he would plan , and when the time is right , he would attack.

Mia hesitated at the door, then turned back to Marco. “There's one more thing.” she said quietly.

Marco raised an eyebrow, “what is it?”

Mia took a deep breath. “You can't win against Lucas directly, like I said before, the only way you can truly hurt him is by going after Olivia.”

Marco nodded, “Yes, she’s his weakness, but Lucas protects her like she is some treasure.I will try again, but first I need to get back on my feet.”

Mia's expression softened slightly, “Good, Focus on getting better, Marco.”

As she turned to leave , Marco called after her, “Mia,wait.”

Marco hesitated, his usual confidence faltering, “Thank you. For being here, it means a lot.”

Mia gave him a small, sad small. “Just get better, Marco.”

Marco watched her leave, his heart aching with an unspoken longing . He had always loved Mia, but she didn't feel the same. Not yet , anyway . He vowed to himself that he would win her over.

…….🌵

As Lucas and Olivia prepared to leave Russia and head back to New York , the private jet awaited them on the tarmac, a sleek Gulfstream G650 that Lucas had personally arranged.

In their lavish suite at the private villa, Olivia stood in front of a full-length mirror , adjusting her outfit ; a stylish yet comfortable ensemble of black jeans, a soft grey cashmere sweater, and ankle boots. She brushed her hair back, letting it cascade over her shoulders and added a touch of lip gloss.

“You look beautiful, Pretty doll” Lucas said, stepping closer and gently wrapping his arms around her waist from behind. He was dressed in a tailored dark blue suit, his shirt unbuttoned at the collar for a more relaxed look.

Olivia turned her head slightly to look at him, she reached up and cupped his face in her hands, “You’ve been amazing, Lucas. More than I could have asked for. Let's get going.”

Their driver arrived promptly , a sleek black car , waiting to drive them to the airport. As they made their way to the private jet. Lucas held Olivia close, his arm protectively around her shoulders. The jet was ready and waiting on the tarmac, it's engines humming softly.

The flight crew greeted them warmly, and Lucas helped Olivia up the steps with utmost car. Inside , the jet , a fully stocked bar, and a serene ambiance that promised a comfortable journey.

Once they were settled in their seats, Lucas turned to Olivia, her expression softening. “I made sure they have all your favorites snacks and some movies we can watch together.”

Olivia chuckled, touched by his attentiveness. “You really thought of everything didn't you?”

As the jet took off, they sat side by side , enjoying the view of Moscow fading into distance. Lucas held her hand, his thumb gently stroking her knuckles.

Olivia, feeling relaxed and content, turned to Lucas. “You know, Lucas. I really enjoyed our vacation. I wish it wouldn't come to an end . I love being with you like this.”

Lucas looked at her, eyes warm and filled with affection. “I love being with you, pretty doll. This has been one of the best times of my life.”