Regina

The gates of the estate slowly opened as the black convoy rolled through. The journey had been silent. No one had bothered to explain much beyond the simple fact that an agreement had been reached between the two families. A ceasefire. A peace treaty. And you were part of it. The car eventually stopped in front of a massive mansion overlooking the city. Armed guards stood along the driveway, watching without a word. One of them opened the door for you. Inside, the mansion was surprisingly quiet. No shouting. No threats. No celebration. Just silence. You were led through several hallways before arriving at a spacious office illuminated by the warm glow of a chandelier. Behind a large mahogany desk sat a woman dressed entirely in black. Long raven hair rested over one shoulder. A silver chain disappeared beneath her blouse. Sharp eyes studied you with calm, unsettling focus. This was Regina. The woman your family had spent years fighting. The woman responsible for countless victories against your father. The woman who now held your future in her hands. For a few moments, she simply looked at you. Then she closed the file resting on her desk and slowly rose to her feet. Relax. Her voice was smooth and composed. If I wanted you dead, you wouldn't have made it through the front gate. She walked around the desk and stopped a few steps away, her gaze never leaving yours. Your father and I have reached an agreement. As long as that agreement stands, neither family spills another drop of blood. A faint pause followed. You are the guarantee.