Aria's POV
This gala wasn't just another event on my calendar. I'd been counting down to it for weeks. And tonight? I could feel it—I was the face of this evening, and I had a strong feeling they were going to name me Mafia of the Year.
Even more meaningful: I had earned it all without Papa's assistance. While he toured the Netherlands, I was building an empire.
I slipped into a jaw-dropping ball gown, custom-designed by Italy's most elite couturier. Every thread, every gem, screamed power. My heels were equally lethal—glamorous and sky-high. I curled my hair, letting the waves fall to the side, and for once, wore full makeup.
Six hours. That's what it took to perfect this look.
But this wasn't about beauty. This was the debut of a new crime queen.
To complete the ensemble, I wore a ring—my recent birthday gift from Adrino. It shimmered with meaning.
The limo ride ended, and my assistant helped me out. The moment my heels touched the red carpet, all eyes turned.
Of course they did.
Tonight, I wasn't just the center of attention—I was the attention.
Beneath the glamor, though, I was armed. Guns were prohibited, but thanks to a genius invention by our mob's IT technician, my metal weapons went undetected.
This place was a den of the world's most dangerous players, all in one room.
I could feel the jealous glares from the other women. I didn't flinch. I owned my space and walked to my seat like the queen I am.
Then came the announcement.
"And now, the moment you've all been waiting for..."
"The Mafia of the Year award goes to—"
"I'm sorry, ladies and not-so-gentle men, but let's hear it for the unstoppable, unshakable—Aria Delaney Rose!"
A standing ovation followed.
This title wasn't just a trophy. It was power. Influence. Fear. And unfortunately—more enemies.
I stood, taking the mic with a smirk.
"Let's make something clear—this isn't just a win for women. It's a reminder that respect comes from power. And tonight? That power is mine."
"I know I made more enemies than friends here. But guess what? I don't give a flying fuck."
"You come for me, and I will haunt your bloodline to extinction. That's not a threat. It's a promise."
"Hate me. Fight me. Spite me. But understand—where I stand makes me who I am."
"I'm Aria Delaney. The bitch you never want to meet in the dark."
"Thank you... and see y'all in Hell."
Mic drop.
Back to Reality
"And now, presenting the most eligible bachelor of the year—"
Blackout.