108.

Ricardo's POV

Standing in my suite's office, I gazed out of the window, my thoughts consumed by Aiden and Lily. What I felt within me at their defiance was slowly becoming more than just anger. It was rabid and uncontrollable now.

How could they continuously thwart my plans? How could two mere individuals prove so difficult to separate?

Turning away from the window, I made my way to the nearby shelf adorned with a decanter of golden whiskey and some glass cups. Pouring two glasses, I returned to my desk, where Irene sat waiting for me.

"Here," I began, my voice carrying a hint of authority, "have a drink, Irene."

Irene hesitated, her eyes darting nervously around the room before falling to her lap. "I-I don't drink, Mr. Gambino, you know that." she stammered.

My gaze hardened as I fixed her with a cold stare. "You will drink it now," I commanded, pushing the glass towards her. "Drink up. Let me see you empty that glass."

Irene's hands trembled as she reluctantly reached for the glass.