Chapter 20

"Let's cut the bullshit, shall we?" Marco Russo's voice was cold as steel as he settled into the armchair, his eyes never leaving Luca's face. "You've caused me quite a bit of trouble, Moretti."

Luca remained standing, his body tense like a coiled spring. "The feeling's mutual, old man."

Sofia stood between them, her heart racing. She could feel the tension crackling in the air, thick enough to cut with a knife. "Both of you, please," she said, trying to keep her voice steady. "We need to talk this out."

Marco's eyes flicked to his daughter, a sardonic smile playing at his lips. "Talk? And what exactly do you think there is to discuss, cara mia? The fact that you've betrayed your family for this... thug?"

Sofia felt Luca stiffen behind her, could almost feel the anger radiating off him in waves. She reached back, her hand finding his, squeezing gently. A silent reminder: stay calm.

"I haven't betrayed anyone," Sofia said, meeting her father's gaze steadily. "I'm trying to stop this wa