Title: Castello di Carte Mafia Chronicles, Book 3 Also Known As: Laceration: The Game of Chains In life, unexpected turns can be overwhelming. Imagine being engaged to a stranger, only to discover they're somehow connected to your long-cherished love. I found myself in that very situation, fainting at my own party and resorting to alcohol to cope with the wedding night. To make matters worse, my new husband proposed a contract, eager to distance himself, which I signed without much thought. Spending a full year under the same roof felt like a test of endurance, especially when he constantly sought out conversations that unnerved me, yet strangely, I found myself enjoying the challenge. Despite everything, I knew deep down that he wasn't truly mine, and his mistress' existence was a constant reminder of that. Marriage, power dynamics, and a surprising age difference – none of these were part of my original plan for success as a Mafioso. Yet, there was something about her, a captivating enchantress masquerading as my bride, that left me vulnerable. I, known for my ironclad control and sharp wit, found myself powerless against her allure. Our first encounter ignited a desire I couldn't resist. The contract, meant to keep us apart, only fueled my thoughts of her. All I wanted was to break free from its constraints, but I knew the consequences could be catastrophic. Complications arose, including her influential father, my own dark history, infiltrating threats, and haunting nightmares beyond my control. It was a complex web of emotions and circumstances that tested my every fiber.