Vivian POVI laid in Greg's office for at least a day. I had no concept of time anymore. I couldn't allow myself to feel anything or the hard truth would come rushing back to me."Vivian, we should move you to your room. It would be more comfortable and we can clean up better." Paul spoke softly as he moved the hair from my face. I was on my side staring aimlessly at the wall."I don't want to move." I replied in barely a whisper."I know, V. If we can just clean up a little then you can lay back down. I promise just a little bit I need you to get up."I nodded ok, slowly lifting from the bed. My body felt like lead and my core felt achy. I winced, slowly moving off the table in just an oversized tshirt Paul gave me."I got you V." Paul whispered, picking me up bridal style.He walked out the door and a swarm of men were out there. Did Niko actually think I would run in the state I was in? As Paul walked further on I noticed them all following behind us."Why are there so many guards?"

Vivian POVI woke with all the people I loved piled in my bed and it gave me a spark to try and live today. I got in the shower, letting the steam roll away my sadness but nothing took away the pain in my heart. I just felt empty and helpless. My Aunt was on my bed reading to Amy while Dominick and Sophia shamelessly flirted with each other on my couch. They were cute together. "I was thinking... maybe we could get some food." I said with a small smile. I wasn't hungry but I needed to do the normal things again, like showering and eating. For now, I would concentrate on Amy, my friends, and finding out why my father caused such chaos. I hoped it would be enough to keep me up all day, but I also knew I could come to bed and cry to my heart's content too. No one put pressure on me to be ok, or to act in a certain way. Everyone was just there for me however I needed them. So, now I needed to try for them and maybe one day I'll want to do it for myself again. "Yes, that's a great idea.

Vivian POVI couldn't believe the story my aunt just told us. Her and my mother endured so much pain for no other reason than for some men to have more power. All the years of my childhood she was cold and distant with me I now understood why. I was the reason she had to keep living."I'm so sorry Aunt Kathy." I whispered as she broke down in tears. She just said how she wanted to die but stayed alive to raise me. She had no pleasure left in this world. "I want to go home to my husband and my child now." She wiped her tears and pulled away from me. "Of course. Niko has a car for you all ready. You can go anywhere you want and they will protect you this time." I looked in her eyes, trying to convey her safety. She didn't care though."I will be leaving then. Don't come back causing me more trouble child." She scolded, then turned her back to me. I should be upset how little love she expressed for me but I knew how deep it truly was."Aunt Kathy, what was my cousin's name?"She slowly

Vivian POVThe second the meeting began I could barely feel my body. I stood confidently by Niko's side truly believing he would protect me. As they discussed my father, then my own fate, it seemed surreal. Rarely did any of them glance my way. How could they so candidly discuss my life and not even bother to ask my opinion?I realized how powerful these families really were. They weren't vile humans pushing drugs and fucking whores. They were united as one to keep the children and grandchildren on top. To keep their bloodline above tyranny and above any other's rule. They were like a cult, but with more money than God. It was sickening yet alluring. So much power they held, so much good they could do.Niko spoke of my time with him and I felt his words. I never wanted to be here or with him. There were times I found happiness behind closed door with Niko, but not within this life. It wasn't all true though. I loved Sophia, Dominick, Paul, Marie, and even Gio was growing on me again. I

Niko POV"Come in." I grunted to the knocking at my door."Good Afternoon, Capo. You wanted to see me?" Vanessa walked in standing at the side of my desk."Yes, now that we have this mess settled, I wanted to speak to you about our arrangement." I didn't even look up from my papers as I spoke. The last thing I needed was to pretend I wanted this woman in front of me. "Of course. I have everything arranged and there is nothing you need to do. In a little over two months, we will be married." She slithered her way behind my chair, lightly sliding her fingers to my shoulders. "You have been so stressed Nikola. Let me help relieve all this pressure." She kneaded my shoulders and it actually felt really good. I have been stressed a lot lately."Hmm, I could use a good release." I closed my eyes allowing her fingers to dig deep into my muscles. "You have so much responsibility Capo. I can help.""You have helped Vanessa. I know many ways you've stood by my side. I even noticed how you choo