De La Rosa ( A Danna De La Rosa Novel)

1

Today marked the launch of a high-stakes operation, and I was the CEO of this strategic mission. Meeting my so-called fiancé, Alexandro Riviera, wasn't about fairy tale romance—it was a calculated move to safeguard my family's empire.

"You look stunning. If he doesn't appreciate you, he's clearly not worth the time," my father's attempt at sentimentality fell flat, reminding me of his absence during my formative years. But I wasn't in the business of seeking approval.

"I don't need his approval, I need his signature on that marriage certificate," I shot back, my tone as sharp as my business acumen.

"You need some love," he sighed, completely missing the point.

"No. What I needed was a father who showed up. Now, I need you to back off," I dismissed him, not interested in his late-stage parenting.

As he retreated to drown his sorrows in a bottle, I turned to Michael, my right-hand man in this corporate jungle. He briefed me on the day's agenda, each detail meticulously planned for maximum impact.

"Make sure Sofia tells the staff to step up. They're getting a week off after this," I commanded, my authority ringing clear in every syllable.

Michael nodded, his loyalty unwavering. "Already taken care of. But your safety comes first, so the guards stay on duty."

"I can handle myself," I rolled my eyes, not about to let anyone question my capabilities.

"There's no doubt about that, but we're not taking any chances," he insisted, his dedication to my cause admirable.

"Has the merchandise arrived? I want it out of my sight ASAP," I demanded, the weight of our clandestine dealings bearing down on me.

"I'll handle it," Michael assured me, disappearing to execute my orders with military precision.

As the day unfolded, each moment was a strategic maneuver, every interaction a calculated risk.

Michael left my room without another word, his loyalty to both Daniel and me palpable in the air. Daniel, my twin brother, had made his mark in the underworld, delving deep into the murky world of drug trafficking. Our family estate served as his headquarters, a sprawling fortress from which he controlled his vast empire. Despite our public image as the esteemed owners of a major car manufacturing company, the truth was far more sinister, with Daniel pulling the strings behind the scenes.

Jasmine strode into the room, her demeanor commanding attention. "Ready to take charge and make things happen?"

I straightened my shoulders, matching her assertiveness. "Always."

She smirked, recognizing the determination in my tone. "That's the spirit. Raphael will escort you to the penthouse to meet Riviera. Time to show him who's boss."

"Ok." I let out a bitter laugh. Raphael Sautillon, my first love and Jasmine's older brother. He had left me pregnant at 16, refusing to take responsibility for his actions.

I wanted to hate him, but he was still part of the family that my mother had paid for to be in our lives. I couldn't fully trust either of them, but money always seemed to buy loyalty. I didn't need friends, but I craved someone who would truly stand by me without an ulterior motive.

...

Raphael sat in the driver's seat, his grip on the wheel so tight that his knuckles turned white. I avoided looking at him, knowing that the desperation in his eyes would only make me doubt my decision even more.

"Why are you marrying him?" he finally asked, his voice trembling with emotion.

I turned to face him and took a deep breath before answering, "It's the only way to protect Daniel from his father's wrath. I have to do this."