My Don's Vow of Impotence

Lorenzo's promise to give me control of the docklands was only a verbal one.

He had said he would handle the official transfer of rights immediately after the wedding.

But on our wedding day, I was too shocked by the news of his "impotence" to think of anything else.

Afterward, I was so focused on trying to salvage our relationship that the docklands never crossed my mind.

Besides, as a Romano, it wasn't as if I were starved for power.

By the time our relationship had grown cold, he had orchestrated the masquerade ball and deliberately sullied my name, claiming I'd been with another man.

This series of events left me feeling so guilty that I didn't dare bring up the matter of the docklands.

Now was the perfect opportunity.

Lorenzo hesitated, offering a placating excuse.

"Elara, I will of course keep my promise. We're husband and wife; it doesn't matter whose name is on the deed."

"Besides, you don't know the first thing about the family business. It's better left in my hands."

Without another word, I took out the prepared dissolution agreement and handed it to him.

"You say the past is behind us, but you're unwilling to give me what I'm owed. It makes me feel insecure."

"Since you still hold a grudge, then you should sign this."

"I thought possessing some authority of my own would allow me to help you with family affairs. Give me something to do besides sit at home and let my mind wander all day."

I lowered my eyes, hiding the fire within them.

To get my revenge, I had no choice but to play his game.

I knew Lorenzo couldn't afford a divorce right now.

The joint project between our two families had reached a critical stage. If Lorenzo caused a scene with me now, his losses would be immense.

Under duress, he called the family lawyer that very night and had him bring over the property rights transfer agreement.

Only when both our names were signed on the document did I finally draw a steady breath.

Lorenzo sidled up to me again, his words dripping with false intimacy.

His attempt to placate me was sickeningly obvious.

Sensing the reek of hypocrisy coming from him, the nausea in my stomach intensified.

I took a deep breath and made a quick excuse.

"I'm not feeling well. I'm going upstairs to rest."