Second Marriage, The Billionaire's Planned Love novel Chapter 188

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.”

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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:

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“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

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our cleaned house. However, her expression darkened when discussing Rossi’s toxic legacy.

“Multiple women have approached me about his predatory behavior. Sexual exploitation was apparently standard practice under his regime,” Heidi revealed with controlled fury.

My blood chilled. “This organization must be a sanctuary for our people. We need ironclad protection policies and swift retribution mechanisms. It’s not just about honor, it’s about maintaining loyalty.”

“Excellent point,” Caleb agreed immediately. “We have basic protocols and training, but clearly they’re inadequate. Women still fear retaliation for reporting violations. Would you work with Gemma, Ruby, and Lila to restructure our internal justice system?”

“Perfect strategy,” Scott supported enthusiastically. “Female leadership on this matter will encourage other women to seek our protection.”

“I demand to participate,” Heidi added fiercely. “This family has a dark history with abuse. In the past, it was even more blatant. I endured it personally. Your father attempted reforms, but those were different times.”

“Then it’s decided. We’re creating a truly safe empire for our women,” I concluded with deadly determination.

Xavier and Jude arrived, immediately endorsing our restructuring plan. Sawyer’s encrypted call proceeded smoothly, finalizing details for our Boston territory expansion. By the time we finished, the lunch hour had arrived.

“Family meal?” Caleb suggested.

“Excellent idea. I’ll summon Ru and Lila,” I agreed.

“Don’t forget Gemma,” Caleb reminded me.

“Actually, she’s dining with Dominic. He finally convinced her to hear his proposal,” I reported.

“About time,” Jude muttered. “Basil needs to secure his woman quickly.”

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After lunch, Caleb headed directly to his office for a client negotiation. I stopped by Lila’s desk to confirm our evening plans.

“We’re meeting at the Social Union front. Everything’s arranged with the girls. Ready?”

“Sort of. I desperately need counsel,” Lila replied with that vulnerable expression that made you want to protect her.

“Relax, sorella. Every problem has a violent solution,” I assured her before returning to my office.

A while later, Lila entered Caleb’s office carrying a discrete package, emerging moments later with a mysterious smile. My secure phone rang immediately.

“Come here, regina,” Caleb’s voice held that familiar predatory edge.

I found him seated behind his desk. As I approached, he pulled me onto his lap with practiced dominance, claiming my lips hungrily.

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