EL MOSCOW

days ago, the announcement of Mikhail Morozov and Donatella De Luca's engagement had sent sho

aleidoscope of colors, and walls adorned with intricate frescoes. The air was alive with t

gowns and tailored suits. The who's who of Moscow's elite mingled with It

khail as its CEO and The Pakhan, Sergei Morozov as the chairman. The company's influence stretched far b

The cameras clicked, capturing the glamour of the evening, wh

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her shoulders. "Dona, I know this is hard for you. I know how difficult it is for you to take this step, but trust me, it's for the greater good

e within her. She raised her head high, determination etched o

," Donatella sai

erbosses of La Famiglia De Luca nodded in respect. Barino Moretti approache

ll smile playing on her lips. Barino s

natella's father, Capo Ivan De Luca, awaited

Morozov family and the De Luca family were gathered. Mikhail

ding attention. They walked towards the VIP seats provided for them, their faces beaming wit

face. "Ladies and gentlemen, please stand on your feet as we welcome the soon-to-be couple

the atmosphere. Mikhail, resplendent in a tailored black tuxedo, exuded confidence and power. His crisp white shirt and black tie complemented his chisel

intricate diamond designs that adorned the gown sparkled under the light. Her hair was pulled back into a sleek ponytail, with a few l

be couple's commanding presence. They smiled, a perfect picture of elegance and sophistication, as the guests chee

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old gaze. Mikhail took Donatella's hand, his fingers brushing against hers as he slid the silver ring onto her finger. Th

smile or show any emotion, her eyes simply locked onto the ring before flicking up to meet Mikhail

nger. The ring was adorned with a row of diamonds, symbolizing their arranged union rather

gh the microphone. "And now, it's time for the family to give their speeches, welcoming M

get married," she said with a chuckle. "But sometimes when you plan life, life plans you. I'm so happy for Donatella – she's always been a strong, independent person with a determined mindset. I feel like she and Mikhail

the Morozovs. Once Donatella is married, she'll no longer be a De Luca, but a Morozov. I'm confident Mikhail will take good care of her. And trust me, she's not the soft type – sometimes she's annoying, sometimes she frustrates me, but she

s fire in his eyes even then. Growing up has been tough for him and his siblings, but I've done everything I could to ensure they have a wonderful life. I'm proud

ed, "Can you just stop?" in a low, annoyed tone. Donatella raised an eyebrow, "What do yo

ring, but we have to keep up the ac

f course, I didn't forget. We'

side; you just have to unlock it." The guests chuckled, and Pakan Sergei added with a grin, "Don't forget that hint." He paused, his eyes twinkling.

uples prepared for their first dance. The atm

they moved in perfect sync. Their eyes locked, and to the onlookers, it seemed like they were gazing at each other with love. But beneath the surface, thei

awkwardly. "This is awkward," she whispered, her voice barel

t even decide for myself." She glanced up at Mikhail, her eyes sparkling with annoya

won't stop talking, will you?" he s

l's eyes narrowed. He stared at her, his expression

flocked to congratulate the soon-to-be couple. Donatella's s

Sergei himself. The De Lucas and other prominent men and women also paid their respects, wishing the couple success in their u

ecognizing Vera from their previous encounter. Vera's smile grew wider as she said, "I understand ho

y, do I know you? I don't think you're

Mikhail and I have known each

laced with sarcasm. "Wo

ore she regained composure. "I have wh

ting for over six years? I mean, I just knew him a few weeks ago, but yo

ile vanishing as Donatel

ith condescension. "I understand how it feels when you're

rstand how it feels to be a permanent fi

x years of knowing him, of being by his side,

secret, more like. You're just mad because you're about to be re

hat you're getting yourself into. Mikhail doesn't love you;

either? News flash- I don't care!."she pauses a little bit breathing heavily then continues. "What I'm doin

able, the air thick with unspoken

m, his eyes narrowing as he sensed the tension. "W

d confidently. "Just putting someone in her place,

"I don't think you have any right to walk into my life or talk about my p

th embarrassment. Vera's smirk turned into a smile as

he faced Vera. "You can leave,

a hint of a smile still on her face. Donatella's e

lla. "One hell of an engagement party, don't you think?" he said,

twisted in fury. Mikhail's smile never wavered as he took her h

nger and humiliation simme