Don Marco intervened, impatiently:
"Enough discussion. We have two proposals on the table:
Leonardo speaks up first:
"Juliana, marry me – I offer protection from Victor's wrath and a chance for you and Sophia to live relatively free."
Victor's eyes narrow at his brother before he adds:
"I counter Leonardo's offer: Marry me, and Sophia lives – obediently marry me, and she walks away unharmed."
I glance at Sophia, tears streaming down her face – freedom within reach through sacrifice.
With courage fueling my heart, I turn to Leonardo:
"Thank you for your offer, Leonardo... but I decline."
Leonardo's eyes widen slightly in surprise before I continue:
"I accept Victor's proposal instead."
The room erupts into tension as Victor's face twists in triumph.
I grasp
My hand trembles slightly as I grasp the pen provided by the lawyer...
As I sign my name – "Juliana Morano" – beside Victor's, my mind screams silent vows:
*Victor, your downfall begins.*
*You've just sealed your own destruction.*
*I will destroy your empire and your soul.*
My eyes never leave Victor's as I sign – defiance burning brighter with each stroke.
Victor's face twists in triumph, lips whispering almost audibly:
"You're mine now..."
Leonardo's expression turns cold, his eyes narrowing at Victor before he turns to me:
"Juliana, you've made a grave mistake."
Don Marco intervenes, voice firm:
"Enough. The marriage will be formalized immediately. Prepare the wedding chamber."
Sophia rushes to my side, tears of mixed emotions streaming down her face:
"Juliana, what have you done..."
Whispering to Sophia –
"Trust me, sister – this is just the beginning of our revenge."
Sophia's eyes widened slightly, hope flickering within them as she nodded almost imperceptibly.
Then, turning to Victor –
"Shall we proceed to our wedding ceremony... husband-to-be?"
My voice was laced with sweetness and subtle venom. Victor's eyes narrowed slightly, sensing the underlying hostility, but his face still twisted into a triumphant smile.
He offered his arm:
"Indeed, my bride-to-be. Our union will be... unforgettable."
Don Marco declared:
"The ceremony will take place in the east wing chapel. Guests are already assembled."
As we walked towards the chapel, Sophia fell into step beside me, whispering:
"What's your plan, Juliana?"
I glanced at Victor, ensuring he didn't listen, before responding barely audibly:
"He thinks he's bought my obedience... but I've just infiltrated his empire."