“Dad!” Anthony yelled, struggling against Victor’s iron grip. His father lay crumpled on the ground, blood pooling beneath him, but his hand twitched as he tried to push himself up.
Felix’s laughter cut through the tension, sharp and mocking. “Touching, really. But this is just the beginning, Anthony. You’re not ready for the weight of that crown.” He waved the detonator for emphasis. “You think you’ve won, but I always have the upper hand.”
Anthony’s vision blurred with rage. “You’ll regret this, Felix.”
Felix smirked, stepping back toward his car. “Oh, I don’t think I will. But feel free to try.”
Before Anthony could break free, Victor snapped him back to reality. “Focus! He’s not out of reach yet.”
Jake appeared at their side, weapon ready. “What’s the call, boss? Do we take him out or save your old man?”
Anthony’s gaze darted between Felix retreating toward his SUV and his father gasping for breath on the cold concrete. Every fiber of his being screamed for vengeance, but the flicker of life in his father’s eyes tethered him.
“Victor, cover me!” Anthony ordered, shoving the pistol into Jake’s hand. “You two handle Felix—don’t let him get away. I’ll deal with my father.”
Victor nodded sharply. “You heard him, Jake. Move!” The two men sprinted toward Felix, bullets flying as they tried to close the distance.
Anthony dropped to his knees beside his father, his hands shaking as he pressed against the wound. “You’re going to be fine. Just stay with me.”
His father’s lips curled into a weak smirk. “I know, son. I'm a bad grass.”
“Shut up!” Anthony growled, pressing harder.
“Always so stubborn.” his father rasped, coughing up blood. “Just like your mother.”
Anthony’s stomach twisted. “Save your breath. We’ll talk about her later, when you’re out of here.”
Anthony turned slightly, catching the glint of metal near the wrecked black car. Felix’s men had planted more explosives.
“Damn it!” Anthony cursed under his breath, realizing the detonator Felix held wasn’t just for show. The entire area was a death trap.
His father grabbed his wrist, his grip surprisingly strong. “This family... this legacy... it’s yours now. Protect it... or destroy it. But don’t... let it control you.”
Anthony shook his head. “Yes, and we are in this together. Just stay here.”
A loud explosion rocked the garage as one of Felix’s SUVs went up in flames. Victor and Jake had managed to stop his escape, but the chaos drew closer. Felix’s laughter echoed again, this time more frantic, as he disappeared into the smoke.
Victor’s voice rang out. “Anthony! We’ve got to move!”
Anthony looked back down at his father and helped him.
Victor appeared, grabbing his shoulder. “Anthony, now! The car’s rigged!”
Anthony stood, the weight of his father pressing on him. He let Victor carry him away, but as they ran, something shifted in him—a fire ignited by loss and betrayal.
When they reached the exit, Jake was already there, panting but grinning. “Felix is gone, but he won’t get far. We left him a little surprise.”
Anthony nodded, his face unreadable. “Good. He’ll pay for everything.”
Victor watched him carefully. “You’re in charge now. What’s the move?”
Anthony turned to face the smoldering wreckage, the echoes of his father’s final words ringing in his ears. “We rebuild. And we strike back.”
The air hung heavy with the promise of vengeance as Anthony clenched his fists, his mind already racing with plans. Felix thought he’d won, but he’d just unleashed something far more dangerous: a man with nothing left to lose.
As Anthony stepped out into the night, a sleek black sedan pulled up. The window rolled down to reveal an older man with piercing eyes and a knowing smile.
“You’ve got your father’s fire.” the man said, his voice smooth. “Now let’s see if you’ve got his brains. Get in—we’ve got work to do.”
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The De Luca Heir 9: Spark of vengeance
Anthony hesitated for only a moment, his mind racing as the older man’s piercing gaze locked onto his. Victor placed a hand on his shoulder, his grip firm. “You know who that is?” Anthony didn’t break eye contact. “Should I?” Victor nodded. “Leonardo Moretti. Your father’s closest ally in the old days. If he’s here, it means he’s got a stake in this fight.” Jake, still catching his breath, muttered, “Or he’s here to claim the spoils.” Leonardo chuckled, as if hearing Jake’s skepticism. “I assure you, I’m not here to take anything from you, Anthony. I’m here to make sure you don’t lose everything your father built.” Anthony’s jaw tightened as he glanced back at the smoldering wreckage of the garage. His father’s blood still stained his hands, and Felix’s mocking laughter echoed in his mind. “Why now? Where were you when he needed you?” They put his dad inside the car and drove away. Leonardo’s expression turned cold. “Your father made enemies faster than he made allies. He kept
The De Luca Heir 10: The Heir's Revelation
The sterile lights of the hospital reflected off the polished floors as the team rushed Alexandro through the emergency entrance. Anthony walked beside the stretcher, his jaw clenched, his hands still smeared with his father’s blood. Victor stayed close, scanning the surroundings for any sign of Felix’s men, while Jake barked orders to secure the area. “We need a surgeon now!” Anthony shouted as the staff took over, wheeling Alexandro into the operating room. The doors swung shut with a metallic clang, leaving Anthony standing in the hallway, fists clenched in helpless frustration. Victor placed a hand on his shoulder. “He’s tough, Anthony. He’ll pull through.” Anthony nodded, but his mind was elsewhere. He didn’t want to lose his dad anymore. His parents were out of the picture of how many years and his grandma never told him the truth until she died. “I want to be with my family again, Victor.” he sighed. Victor understood him. He glanced at the folder Leonardo had given him,
The De Luca Heir 11: Hospital ambush
Anthony felt his pulse hammering against his ribs, the weight of his mother’s revelation pressing down on him like a vice. He shook his head, his breath coming in short, angry bursts. "What the hell are you saying? My father—betrayed Felix’s family?"His mother took a steadying breath. "It wasn’t supposed to happen like this, Anthony. Your father and Felix’s father, Robert, made an agreement years ago. A marriage was arranged between you and Felicima to solidify the alliance. It was meant to bring peace. But when Robert wanted your dad and our family to participate on their illegal businesses which our family never done, Alexandro—he went back on his word. He called off the engagement and set fire to everything that connected us to the Carbones. Your dad didn't want you to be one of them when he found out their dirty doings."Anthony’s chest tightened as he processed her words. He exhaled sharply, rage twisting inside him. "So Felix wants revenge because my father humiliated his famil
The De Luca Heir 12: New life and new world
The echoes of gunfire had finally faded, leaving behind only the scent of gunpowder and the wreckage of Felix’s failed ambush. Anthony stood amidst the carnage, his breath coming in sharp, heavy gasps. His body ached from the bruises and minor wounds he had sustained, but they had won. Felix’s men had either been taken down or forced to retreat.Leonardo wiped blood from his brow, glancing at Anthony. "We need to get out of here before more of them show up."Victor nodded. "We’ll regroup at the hospital, get patched up, and then move."They piled back into the SUV, the tension in the air thick despite their victory. The drive back to the hospital was quick but silent, each man lost in his thoughts. When they arrived, the doctors worked swiftly, stitching wounds and assessing their injuries. Anthony barely flinched as a nurse disinfected a gash on his arm. His mind was elsewhere—on the truth he was about to uncover.Once their wounds were tended to, they didn’t waste any time. They lef
The De Luca Heir 13: Made his first negotiation
The next morning, Anthony woke up finding his dad, Victor, and Leonardo waiting for him in the living room. He sensed that they were talking about a serious matter."Good morning, son." Alexandro greeted him."Good morning, dad, Victor, and Leonardo. Am I not informed? Do we have a serious meeting?" he chuckled.Alexandro asked the maid to prepare Anthony coffee and cake."Yes. As your second day being the boss of this clan, we want you to show yourself up if you can negotiate with someone later on." Leonardo smirked.Anthony's eyes widened. "What do you mean?"Alexandro chuckled a bit."Sorry if we surprised you, son. But you really need to do this. Every starting mob boss had done this already. To prove you can lead our clan." he added."We want you to make them close the deal with us. This person is powerful and important to be on our side, Anthony." Victor stated.He was a bit nervous. All of his life, he hasn't negotiated big things. He swallowed hard looking at the three of them
The De Luca Heir 14: Losing a personal deal
Anthony turned his head, his grip on Harrington’s hand loosening slightly as he took in the woman who had just entered.Elena Russo.She was every bit as fierce and commanding as her reputation suggested—dressed in a sleek black suit that hugged her curves, her long, wavy brunette hair cascading over one shoulder. Sharp hazel eyes flickered between Anthony and Harrington as she strode inside with confidence, her heels clicking against the concrete floor.Harrington leaned back in his chair, clearly amused. “Elena, always one for dramatic entrances. What brings you here?”Elena smirked, her gaze locking onto Anthony. “I’m here because you’re making a deal that involves my logistics network, and I don’t recall giving my blessing.”Anthony’s jaw tightened. He had heard of Elena Russo—an independent powerhouse in the logistics world, supplying both legal and illicit clients. She controlled key shipping routes and warehouses, making her a crucial player in the game. If she was here, that m
The De Luca Heir 1: Proposal went wrong
"Anthony, I’m sorry, but I’m breaking up with you.” Catherine’s words echoed through Anthony’s mind like a cruel mantra, each syllable heavier than the last. The world around them seemed to slow, but the reality of the crowded café didn’t. The clinking of cups and muffled chatter continued, punctuated by hushed gasps and whispered judgments. He knew people were watching. In his hand, the small velvet box felt heavier than ever. Inside was the modest ring he had saved up for months to buy. With trembling hands, he snapped it shut and smiled bitterly, masking the storm inside him. “Oh my gosh. She rejected him.” a woman’s voice whispered behind him, loud enough to be heard. “Serves him right. Look at that ring—it’s so cheap! And him? Ew. He smells awful.” another chimed in, her voice cutting through him like shards of glass. Anthony’s face flushed a deep crimson. He swallowed hard, resisting the lump in his throat. Slowly, he stood, slipping the ring into his pocket, his eyes dar
The De Luca Heir 2: The truth
“What the hell was that?” Jake asked, his arms crossed and fury blazing in his eyes. Anthony just shook his head and sighed. “Jake, don’t say anything. Catherine apologized and said we are still together.” he said. Jake’s eyes widened. “Are you out of your mind, bro? Can’t you see it? She just said that to get money from you. I can’t believe you!” he walked out angrily. Anthony just groaned and took a deep breath. Suddenly, someone caught his attention. He saw the guy wearing a black tuxedo he had also seen from the cafe yesterday. “I am sorry, do I know you?” he asked the guy. He must be on his 40’s already. The guy smiled at him and shrugged his shoulder. “I am sorry. I didn’t mean to dwell with your own business, but I couldn’t help but stir up. We don’t know each other, but I remember you. You were the guy who was rejected by his girlfriend at the cafe yesterday, right?” he chuckled. Anthony suddenly became shy. “Y-Yes.” he said. “I was right then. Just a little advice
Latest Chapter
14: Losing a personal deal
Anthony turned his head, his grip on Harrington’s hand loosening slightly as he took in the woman who had just entered.Elena Russo.She was every bit as fierce and commanding as her reputation suggested—dressed in a sleek black suit that hugged her curves, her long, wavy brunette hair cascading over one shoulder. Sharp hazel eyes flickered between Anthony and Harrington as she strode inside with confidence, her heels clicking against the concrete floor.Harrington leaned back in his chair, clearly amused. “Elena, always one for dramatic entrances. What brings you here?”Elena smirked, her gaze locking onto Anthony. “I’m here because you’re making a deal that involves my logistics network, and I don’t recall giving my blessing.”Anthony’s jaw tightened. He had heard of Elena Russo—an independent powerhouse in the logistics world, supplying both legal and illicit clients. She controlled key shipping routes and warehouses, making her a crucial player in the game. If she was here, that m
13: Made his first negotiation
The next morning, Anthony woke up finding his dad, Victor, and Leonardo waiting for him in the living room. He sensed that they were talking about a serious matter."Good morning, son." Alexandro greeted him."Good morning, dad, Victor, and Leonardo. Am I not informed? Do we have a serious meeting?" he chuckled.Alexandro asked the maid to prepare Anthony coffee and cake."Yes. As your second day being the boss of this clan, we want you to show yourself up if you can negotiate with someone later on." Leonardo smirked.Anthony's eyes widened. "What do you mean?"Alexandro chuckled a bit."Sorry if we surprised you, son. But you really need to do this. Every starting mob boss had done this already. To prove you can lead our clan." he added."We want you to make them close the deal with us. This person is powerful and important to be on our side, Anthony." Victor stated.He was a bit nervous. All of his life, he hasn't negotiated big things. He swallowed hard looking at the three of them
12: New life and new world
The echoes of gunfire had finally faded, leaving behind only the scent of gunpowder and the wreckage of Felix’s failed ambush. Anthony stood amidst the carnage, his breath coming in sharp, heavy gasps. His body ached from the bruises and minor wounds he had sustained, but they had won. Felix’s men had either been taken down or forced to retreat.Leonardo wiped blood from his brow, glancing at Anthony. "We need to get out of here before more of them show up."Victor nodded. "We’ll regroup at the hospital, get patched up, and then move."They piled back into the SUV, the tension in the air thick despite their victory. The drive back to the hospital was quick but silent, each man lost in his thoughts. When they arrived, the doctors worked swiftly, stitching wounds and assessing their injuries. Anthony barely flinched as a nurse disinfected a gash on his arm. His mind was elsewhere—on the truth he was about to uncover.Once their wounds were tended to, they didn’t waste any time. They lef
11: Hospital ambush
Anthony felt his pulse hammering against his ribs, the weight of his mother’s revelation pressing down on him like a vice. He shook his head, his breath coming in short, angry bursts. "What the hell are you saying? My father—betrayed Felix’s family?"His mother took a steadying breath. "It wasn’t supposed to happen like this, Anthony. Your father and Felix’s father, Robert, made an agreement years ago. A marriage was arranged between you and Felicima to solidify the alliance. It was meant to bring peace. But when Robert wanted your dad and our family to participate on their illegal businesses which our family never done, Alexandro—he went back on his word. He called off the engagement and set fire to everything that connected us to the Carbones. Your dad didn't want you to be one of them when he found out their dirty doings."Anthony’s chest tightened as he processed her words. He exhaled sharply, rage twisting inside him. "So Felix wants revenge because my father humiliated his famil
10: The Heir's Revelation
The sterile lights of the hospital reflected off the polished floors as the team rushed Alexandro through the emergency entrance. Anthony walked beside the stretcher, his jaw clenched, his hands still smeared with his father’s blood. Victor stayed close, scanning the surroundings for any sign of Felix’s men, while Jake barked orders to secure the area. “We need a surgeon now!” Anthony shouted as the staff took over, wheeling Alexandro into the operating room. The doors swung shut with a metallic clang, leaving Anthony standing in the hallway, fists clenched in helpless frustration. Victor placed a hand on his shoulder. “He’s tough, Anthony. He’ll pull through.” Anthony nodded, but his mind was elsewhere. He didn’t want to lose his dad anymore. His parents were out of the picture of how many years and his grandma never told him the truth until she died. “I want to be with my family again, Victor.” he sighed. Victor understood him. He glanced at the folder Leonardo had given him,
9: Spark of vengeance
Anthony hesitated for only a moment, his mind racing as the older man’s piercing gaze locked onto his. Victor placed a hand on his shoulder, his grip firm. “You know who that is?” Anthony didn’t break eye contact. “Should I?” Victor nodded. “Leonardo Moretti. Your father’s closest ally in the old days. If he’s here, it means he’s got a stake in this fight.” Jake, still catching his breath, muttered, “Or he’s here to claim the spoils.” Leonardo chuckled, as if hearing Jake’s skepticism. “I assure you, I’m not here to take anything from you, Anthony. I’m here to make sure you don’t lose everything your father built.” Anthony’s jaw tightened as he glanced back at the smoldering wreckage of the garage. His father’s blood still stained his hands, and Felix’s mocking laughter echoed in his mind. “Why now? Where were you when he needed you?” They put his dad inside the car and drove away. Leonardo’s expression turned cold. “Your father made enemies faster than he made allies. He kept
8: Bloodlines and betrayal
“Dad!” Anthony yelled, struggling against Victor’s iron grip. His father lay crumpled on the ground, blood pooling beneath him, but his hand twitched as he tried to push himself up. Felix’s laughter cut through the tension, sharp and mocking. “Touching, really. But this is just the beginning, Anthony. You’re not ready for the weight of that crown.” He waved the detonator for emphasis. “You think you’ve won, but I always have the upper hand.” Anthony’s vision blurred with rage. “You’ll regret this, Felix.” Felix smirked, stepping back toward his car. “Oh, I don’t think I will. But feel free to try.” Before Anthony could break free, Victor snapped him back to reality. “Focus! He’s not out of reach yet.” Jake appeared at their side, weapon ready. “What’s the call, boss? Do we take him out or save your old man?” Anthony’s gaze darted between Felix retreating toward his SUV and his father gasping for breath on the cold concrete. Every fiber of his being screamed for vengeance, but th
7: Shadows of the past
The hallway erupted into chaos as more men stormed in, their shouts and gunfire echoing off the walls. Anthony moved on autopilot, ducking and firing as Victor directed him through the melee. He didn’t feel the pain of his grazed arm or the ringing in his ears. All that mattered was survival. A sharp whistle cut through the noise, and Anthony turned to see Jake barreling through the side door, wielding a shotgun. “Thought you could use some backup!” Jake shouted, blasting an attacker who had crept up behind Victor. Victor nodded curtly. “About time. Hold the west wing! You're so good, kid. Where did you learn that?” Jake ignored him and motioned to Anthony. “You good, kid?” Anthony didn’t answer, his focus locked on the next wave of intruders. They moved with precision, their formation tighter, their aim deadlier. These weren’t grunts. These were the professionals Victor had warned about. Victor cursed under his breath. “This is Felix’s message. He’s not just testing you—he’s try
6: Baptism by fire
The man smirked. “You can call me Victor. Let’s just say I’ve been keeping an eye on Anthony. You two? You’ve become collateral in a game much bigger than you realize.” Anthony frowned. “Bigger? What are you talking about?” Victor walked over to the map, tapping one of the red dots. “Felix isn’t just some rich jerk throwing his weight around. He’s the son of a big group.” Victor said. Anthony's heart raced as Victor stared at him with an intensity that made him feel both uneasy and strangely significant. Jake shifted uncomfortably beside him, his gaze darting between the mysterious man and the high-tech command center surrounding them. Victor finally spoke, his voice calm yet commanding. "Anthony, you’ve been in the dark for too long. But it’s time you know the truth about who you really are." Anthony frowned, confusion mixing with frustration. "What are you talking about? I’m nobody. Just a guy trying to survive in this mess." Victor chuckled dryly, shaking his head. "You’re fa