Exposed to the CEO Behind the Mafia Mask (by Silver Spoon) novel Chapter 188

Chapter 188: Chapter 188 Consolidating Power

Ivy’s POV

The euphoria of our blood oath wedding still coursed through my veins as we stepped back into the ruthless world of organized crime. Our extended famiglia had returned to their respective territories across Greenleaf, leaving behind whispered promises of loyalty and vows to answer our call.

Caleb moved swiftly to consolidate our domestic operations. He offered Carmen a permanent position within our household with substantially increased compensation, knowing she would soon care for two children instead of one. The generous terms brought tears to her eyes. More surprisingly, he convinced her to relocate permanently to our fortified compound, allowing her to rent out her modest apartment for additional income.

"You won’t face the dangers of the streets anymore," Caleb explained with surprising gentleness. "And Walter seems to appreciate your presence."

I caught the subtle flush on Carmen’s cheeks. Those two had been finding excuses to linger in conversation whenever their paths crossed within our estate.

For Max’s protection, Caleb arranged a secure convoy system. He practically stole Xavier’s most trusted wheelman, who couldn’t refuse when Caleb mentioned it concerned his heir’s safety.

The security briefing felt like preparing for war. Caleb introduced me to the elite crew who would guard our stronghold around the clock. Justin, the head of our private army, impressed me with his military precision and lethal competence. Walter assured us he would recruit former soldiers who had served under Caleb’s father, and for those unwilling to return to active duty, he would find equally reliable replacements.

"We mobilize only when every man is thoroughly vetted," Walter promised with cold efficiency. "By week’s end, our fortress will be impenetrable."

Walking into Thorne Enterprises felt different now. Employees approached us with respectful congratulations and carefully measured smiles. The legitimate front buzzed with activity as key positions awaited appointments. Caleb, Xavier, Heidi, and Scott would oversee the selection process together, ensuring only the most loyal candidates gained access to our operations.

Lila greeted us at the elevator with her signature warmth. "Good morning, Don Thorne and Eleanor Thorne!"

"Drop the formality, Lila. We’re famiglia," Caleb corrected with amusement.

"Famiglia, yes. But here you’re my capo and she’s my donna," Lila replied with sparkling defiance.

"The only boss I acknowledge is my wife," Caleb declared, making Lila laugh despite herself.

"Fine, but during business hours, you’re Don Thorne to me." Lila’s expression suddenly turned urgent as she focused on me. "Speaking of which, can we arrange a girls’ night immediately?"

"Already trying to steal my queen?" Caleb’s eyes narrowed with mock menace.

"It’s an emergency, Don! I promise to have her back by midnight," Lila pleaded desperately.

"You better," Caleb warned, then leaned close to whisper in my ear. "Because I plan to claim every inch of your body when you return."

Heat flooded my cheeks. "As if you need an excuse for that."

"What kind of emergency?" I asked Lila, noticing her nervous glance at Caleb.

She clearly wanted privacy for this conversation. I promised to coordinate with our inner circle and followed Caleb to my office.

Fresh blood-red roses waited on my desk, accompanied by a handwritten note that made my heart race:

"My beloved regina,

Every dawn brings deeper devotion to you. You are my anchor, my certainty in this violent world. Thank you for accepting the crown as my queen.

I will earn your loyalty daily, hoping you continue choosing our empire.

Forever yours, Caleb"

I threw my arms around his neck, pouring my emotions into a possessive kiss. "How do you find time for these romantic gestures amid all the bloodshed?"

"I rise before dawn for you, my queen," Caleb murmured against my lips. "With some assistance from our people, naturally."

"I choose our empire every single day because I belong to you completely." I kissed him again, whispering, "And I’m coming home in a very dangerous mood tonight."

"Is that a threat or a promise?" His voice turned predatory as he claimed my throat.

"Both," I breathed, pressing closer.

"Save the honeymoon behavior for after we’ve eliminated our remaining enemies," Heidi interrupted, entering with Scott close behind.

"No amount of time will satisfy my hunger for my wife," Caleb replied shamelessly, still caressing my face with possessive hands.

"We should ask Lila to announce visitors," Scott chuckled.

"We can control ourselves. We’re crime bosses, not street thugs," I protested, trying to sound authoritative.

"Speak for yourself, tesoro," Caleb grinned wickedly. "But since you’re here, let’s discuss territory expansion. Sawyer’s secure call starts soon."

In Caleb’s office, Heidi updated us on her transition to managing our legitimate operations. She was excelling and receiving positive feedback from our cleaned house. However, her expression darkened when discussing Rossi’s toxic legacy.

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