10 Word spread quickly through the underworld . The Brennan - O'Sullivan alliance was over . Smaller families started choosing sides . Delphine tried to play the perfect mob wife , but everyone knew the truth . She was the woman who'd destroyed a legendary romance . At a neutral meeting three weeks later - discussing territory boundaries with multiple families - I felt eyes on me . Ronan Fitzgerald sat across the table . The Fitzgerald family controlled the ports , and Ronan had a reputation for being smart , ruthless , and fair . " Miss Brennan ," he said after the meeting . " A word ? " My security tensed , but I nodded . " I heard the O'Sullivans have been having shipping problems , " he said casually . " Shame when families can't honor their commitments . " I kept my expression neutral . " Is there a point , Mr. Fitzgerald ? " " The point is , the Brennans need new shipping partners . The Fitzgeralds need inland routes . Seems like we could help each other . " " And ? " He smiled . " And I think you're the most interesting woman in Boston . Have dinner with me . Business only , if you prefer . " His directness surprised me . In our world , men usually went through fathers and brothers first . " I'll consider your business proposal ," I said carefully . " That's all I ask . For now . "