•|Chapter One|•: Unexpected Encounter

The city was shrouded in a thick, dark fog, typical of winter nights. The lights from the streetlamps barely managed to penetrate the curtain of fog, creating a mysterious and almost ethereal atmosphere. In the middle of this scene stood the two most imposing mansions in the city, belonging to the Moretti and DeLuca families.

Luca Moretti watched the horizon from his window, lost in his thoughts. At just 25 years old, he was already considered the natural heir of his family, a responsibility that had weighed on his shoulders from a very young age. His father, Alessandro Moretti, was known for his iron fist and his shrewdness in business. Luca knew that one day he would have to follow in his footsteps, but deep down, he wished he could escape that fate.

Meanwhile, at the DeLuca mansion, Adrian was preparing to attend a social event organized by his family. Although outwardly he showed a relaxed and confident attitude, inside he felt a constant pressure to prove his worth. At 24, Adrian had a reputation for being charismatic and daring, traits that often got him into trouble. But tonight, he would have to maintain a facade of control and elegance.

Tonight's event was a charity gala hosted by the two families to improve their public image and keep up appearances. The event hall was elegantly decorated, filled with bright lights and soft music that created an atmosphere of sophistication. The guests, dressed in their finest, chatted animatedly, unaware of the tensions lurking beneath the smiles and toasts.

Luca arrived at the event accompanied by his mother, Sofia, an elegant and reserved woman who always supported her son. As they walked through the hall, Luca could feel the respectful and curious glances of the guests. He knew that everyone saw him as the future leader of the Moretti family, and though he tried to ignore the expectations, he couldn't help but feel overwhelmed.

On the other hand, Adrian arrived with his father, Vittorio DeLuca, an imposing man whose presence filled any room. Adrian greeted the guests with his typical charming smile, although in his mind he only thought about surviving the night without making mistakes that could embarrass his family.

It was then that their paths crossed. Luca and Adrian found themselves face to face near the appetizer table. For an instant, time seemed to stop. They both stared at each other, as if trying to decipher the other's thoughts. To Luca, Adrian was an enigma, a man who seemed to be completely sure of himself, but whose eyes reflected an internal struggle. To Adrian, Luca represented everything he wanted to be: calm, reserved and respected.

—Luca Moretti, right? Adrian said, extending his hand with a sly smile.

Luca nodded and shook his hand, noticing the firmness in Adrian's grip.

“Adrian DeLuca,” Luca replied, unable to hide a tone of distrust in his voice. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

"The pleasure is mine," Adrian replied, still smiling. “It seems that our families keep us busy.”

"That's right," Luca said, without looking away. “Would you like to join our table?”

Adrian nodded and together they went to one of the tables in the room, where the guests were surprised to see the heirs of the rival families chatting amicably. As the night progressed, Luca and Adrian found common ground and began to understand that, beyond their differences and family rivalries, they both shared the same concerns and dreams.

That night, without knowing it, they had taken the first step towards a destiny that would change their lives forever.

It's my first novel in English, I hope you like it 😅 and sorry if the English is a little bad 😅

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