Exposed to the CEO Behind the Mafia Mask (by Silver Spoon) novel Chapter 520

Chapter 520: Chapter 116 Unknown Territory

Lila’s POV

I lowered my espresso cup and met Don Martinez’s calculating gaze across the mahogany table. The tension in his private study was palpable, thick with the weight of unspoken power dynamics that governed our underground world.

"Don Martinez, I left my family’s territory to pursue my law degree. As I mentioned, my father supported this decision completely. My mother, however, like your wife, would have preferred I remained within our family’s sphere and accepted an arranged marriage. That path never aligned with my aspirations," I explained, maintaining a respectful tone. Despite his probing interrogation, he commanded respect as the head of the Martinez dynasty, and I intended to honor that tradition.

"I see. You’re a woman with ambition. And now you work as Caleb Thorne’s legal secretary. I assume Daniel helped secure that position within their organization?" His tone carried implications that made my spine stiffen with discomfort.

"That’s incorrect, Don Martinez. Daniel and I actually first met at Caleb’s wedding ceremony. I maintain close relationships with both Caleb and his wife through legitimate channels. I served as Ivy’s bridesmaid, with Daniel as my escort for the traditional ceremony. Before joining Thorne Enterprises, I worked under Dominic West’s guidance," I clarified, refusing to let his insinuations undermine my professional integrity.

"West has quite the reputation with women in our circles. Were you romantically involved with him?" The question was deliberately provocative, testing my composure.

I felt Daniel tense beside me, his protective instincts flaring as he prepared to defend my honor. I placed my hand gently on his arm beneath the table, silently requesting his restraint.

"Don Martinez, I was working at a boutique when Dominic approached me with a professional opportunity within his art acquisition business. I accepted his offer, and our relationship remained strictly professional throughout our association. Eventually, he recommended me to Caleb’s organization when they required someone with my legal background and discretion. I remain grateful to both gentlemen for advancing my career within our community. I should also mention my friendships with their wives, as well as Jude, Zoe, and Finn - names I’m certain carry weight in your circles. My relationship with Daniel developed naturally, well after these professional connections were established," I responded calmly. From my peripheral vision, I caught Daniel’s proud expression.

"I apologize for my directness. It seems the stress of recent family matters has affected my usual diplomacy," Don Martinez said, appearing somewhat chastened. "I should have recognized your connections immediately, particularly considering you control significant interests in a highly profitable money management enterprise."

"There’s been a misunderstanding, sir. I only hold thirty-five percent of our family’s operations. My grandfather structured the inheritance with thirty-five percent to me, thirty-five percent to my elder brother, and thirty percent to my father. They handle all operational decisions. My brother deposits what he claims represents my share into a private account, though I never access those funds since my legal salary meets my needs adequately," I explained.

"No, Lila, I rarely make errors regarding financial matters. According to my sources, you control fifty percent of your family’s money laundering network, with your brother holding the remaining fifty percent. This includes the art gallery and real estate holdings that serve as your primary fronts - all split equally between you both. Those properties represent considerable value within our underground economy. I’m confident in this intelligence," he replied with a self-assured smile.

"He’s accurate, Lila. Father never miscalculates business figures. He conducted a thorough investigation into your family’s operations," Daniel interjected, his voice tight with anger. "What gave you the authority to investigate her?"

"Don’t be so dramatic, Daniel! I didn’t initiate a personal investigation. I became interested in acquiring a stake in their operation and wanted to make a legitimate business proposal. Discovering Lila’s substantial ownership was unexpected, which prompted deeper inquiry into the family structure. This represents standard business practice - you understand these protocols," his father responded smoothly.

"Don Martinez, you could have approached me directly with any questions. I would have provided honest answers without requiring covert investigation," I said, maintaining measured tones despite my growing unease with his methods.

"Would you really have been forthcoming, Lila? Because I still have several pressing questions regarding your family’s operations," he replied with a smile that suddenly appeared predatory.

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