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Right now, though, my family takes precedence. I have to protect my people.
I need to make sure everyone is taken care of. We cannot afford to lose any business, especially with our trade routes already in jeopardy.
What would my father do?
Cazzo.
* * *
Half an hour later, I gather my soldiers in a dimly lit room. The atmosphere is thick with tension, and I can sense the gravity of their expectations. These men, they’re not just my associates; they’re my family, and they deserve the truth. I take a deep breath, my eyes roaming over their familiar faces, and then I commence.
“I’m sure you’ve all heard the rumors,” I declare, my voice steady but laced with an unusual vulnerability. A ripple of whispers sweeps through the room. “I won’t sugarcoat it. It’s true. We’re facing a threat, a serial killer among us, and none of us are truly safe until we put an end to this madness.”
The room falls into a heavy silence, and their expressions reflect the concern etched across their faces. These men are under the command of Ricci, and it’s my duty to ensure their safety.
“But I give you my word,” I continue, my unwavering conviction seeping into my words, “we won’t rest until this serial killer is apprehended. We’ll ensure that no one else falls prey to this nightmare.”
Switching to Italian, I let the weight of my words, the bond we share, resonate through the room. “Il killer sarà fermato. In questo momento, dobbiamo restare uniti e forti.” My message is clear.We will stop the killer, we will remain strong and united.
Giulio stands at my side, a pillar of unwavering support. He’s been my right-hand man from the start, and I’m grateful for his presence.
Pietro watches us from the shadows, and I can feel his pride radiating through the room. His smile, an unspoken approval.
As I address my men, my thoughts can’t help but wander to someone who should be in this room but isn’t—Rachel. She’s important to me, whether she acknowledges it or not. I wonder if it’s time to extend my protection to her.
I am not going to bring a cold-blooded killer right to her doorstep, especially since I am the one who pursued her so vehemently.
I would never forgive myself if she got targeted or hurt, even as collateral damage.
Does she even know how to fire a gun?
Does she know self-defense?
I know she is fiery and always giving me a run for my money, but in the face of a serial killer, I need to work on protecting her.
We are probably dealing with a strong man, and seeing as he is murdering well trained mafiosi, he must have combat training.
The thought of her exposure to such threats causes a shudder to run through me. Maybe after this meeting, I should discuss a way of adding a designated security personnel for her with Giulio. It can be someone discreet that no one else will be able to detect.
In fact, if she refuses, which she will most probably do, I think that maybe we can have someone at least watch her house and her workplace.
Where does she work? The question rolls through my mind and once again I am reminded that I know practically little to nothing about a woman I am about to ask one of my men to risk their life for.
As soon as this is settled, I need to have a sit down with her, preferably in an open space where I will not be tempted to take off her clothes.
I shake away the thoughts and focus on the life-or-death matter in front of me.
“We’re a family, and family takes care of its own. We’ll make certain our arsenal is fully stocked, and we’ll be prepared for whatever challenges come our way. For now, stay vigilant, and together, we’ll conquer this storm.La famiglia è sempre al primo posto.”
CHAPTEREIGHTEEN
Rachel
Alessandro’s side of the bed is empty; he’s long gone. We both knew that our little arrangement couldn’t last forever. I’ve been ready for this moment.
My phone buzzes, breaking me out of my thoughts. I grab it from the nightstand, and it’s Sophie’s name on the screen.
Come here. Now.
