DANTECaught off guard by Anna's attempt to salvage our last meal together, I found myself momentarily at a loss for words. Sensing her discomfort, I decided to spare her any further awkwardness by steering the conversation in a different direction."Thanks, but I think I'll just stick with coffee for now," I replied gently, trying to inject a note of reassurance into my voice. "You go ahead and eat, and take some time to freshen up. Meanwhile, I'll let Fabiano know to get the car ready."An uncomfortable smile played on Anna's lips, betraying a mix of emotions that lingered between us. Without further ado, she bent down to pick up the shattered fragments of glass from the floor. Concern washed over me as I realized the potential danger she was putting herself in."Please, don't bother with that," I implored, my voice tinged with worry. "You might end up injuring yourself. I'll have someone come up and handle the mess."However, my words fell on deaf ears as Anna persisted in her task

ANNAA few hours had passed since I embarked on my journey to Xavier's place. As I stood in front of his door, I couldn't help but feel a wave of nervous anticipation wash over me. I desperately hoped that Mrs. Kathryn, Xavier's mother, would be in a forgiving mood and grant me entrance. With a silent prayer to whichever divine entity might be listening, I mustered the courage to knock.To my surprise, the door swung open, revealing a sight I hadn't expected. Instead of Mrs. Kathryn, I found myself face to face with a miniature version of Xavier. The resemblance was uncanny—same eyes, same smile, but in a smaller package."Hello," the little one greeted me with a small, innocent voice. "Who are you, and how may I help you?"A warm smile spread across my face as I introduced myself. "My name is Anna, and I'm a friend of your father's. Could you please let him know that I'm here at the door?"Before the little girl could respond, her voice was interrupted by Mrs. Kathryn's call from ins

DANTEAs I stepped into my house, a wave of disappointment washed over me as I surveyed the scene. My men, whom I had entrusted with their respective duties, were slacking off in various corners. Normally, I would have reprimanded them for their lack of discipline, but today they were the least of my concerns. Ignoring their careless demeanor, I made my way towards the entrance, only to be greeted by Matteo with an exuberant grin plastered across his face. It seemed he had been waiting for my return."Welcome home, boss man," Matteo greeted me, his eyes darting around as if searching for something or someone.I furrowed my brow in response to his behavior. "What are you looking for?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.His gaze shifted uneasily as he replied, "The second guy you boarded the plane with. Who is he anyway?"My patience worn thin, I pushed him aside, eager to enter the comfort of my own abode. "I'm not answering any questions while standing outside my own fucking door," I retor

DANTE As Xavier and I discussed the plan, his optimism was palpable. He readily agreed to take care of the individuals responsible for inspecting the jet. I didn't bother asking him for specifics because if he had managed to eliminate the guards around Anna's cell, I had faith that he would handle this task as well. Xavier instructed us to be prepared tonight since Orlando's departure was scheduled for the morning. He emphasized the importance of our presence at the designated location, ready to execute our mission. A portion of my team had already departed for California to ensure the safety of Anna and Xavier's family, while the remaining members would confront Orlando's men at the airport.Lost in my thoughts, I was interrupted by a knock at the door. Granting permission for entry, I saw Tom poking his head in."Do you have a moment, boss? I'd like to talk to you," he asked."I can spare a few minutes. Come in," I replied, gesturing for him to take a seat.Tom entered and settled

DANTESilently, I eased the door open and peered into the room, spotting one of Orlando's men meticulously arranging the space. It appeared he had been reduced to a servant, a mere houseboy in Orlando's empire. Taking aim at his heart, I squeezed the trigger, the sound of the gunshot punctuating the air. The man crumpled onto the bed, his lifeblood staining the pristine white sheets. One adversary eliminated, leaving six more to confront. Stepping further into the room, Matteo, Tom, and John followed closely behind me, ready for the imminent confrontation. With a subtle nod from me, they dispersed, each armed with the determination to eradicate those despicable men.Time seemed to blur as the next few moments unfolded. Swiftly and efficiently, we took down four more of Orlando's men, their existence extinguished with ruthless precision. John's skill and proficiency in combat proved invaluable, reinforcing my confidence in our team's ability. Now, we stood on the threshold of the cabin