Alexander's expression turned serious, the playful atmosphere dissipating. He excused himself, phone in hand, and stepped outside.
"Ethan, what's going on?" Alexander asked, his voice low and urgent.
Ethan's chuckle echoed over the line. "Just having some fun, little bro. You know I've got your back."
Alexander's tone turned stern. "This isn't a game, Ethan. You're trying to hack my laptop. What's your motive?"
Ethan's laughter ceased. "Meet me at the warehouse. We need to talk."
Alexander's instincts kicked in. Something was off.
"I've got to go," Alexander said to Emily, his expression serious.
Emily's eyes widened in concern. "Uncle Alex, what's wrong?"
Alexander forced a reassuring smile. "Just some work stuff, kiddo. Don't worry."
Ethan's voice echoed over the phone again. "Meet me at the warehouse, Alexander. Now."
Alexander nodded, though Ethan couldn't see him. "On my way."
He ended the call and headed for the door.
Emily followed, curiosity etched on her face. "Uncle Alex, is everything okay?"
Alexander hesitated, unsure how much to reveal.
"Everything's fine, Emily. Just some... business to attend to."
Emily's eyes narrowed, sensing something was amiss.
"Be careful, Uncle Alex."
Alexander smiled, trying to alleviate her concerns.
"I will, kiddo. Promise."
With that, he stepped out into the night, leaving Emily with unanswered questions.
Alexander's thoughts returned to the present as he arrived at the warehouse.
Warehouse
Ethan awaited, his expression grave.
"Alexander, I've received intel that someone's compromising our family's operations," Ethan said, his voice low.
Alexander's eyes narrowed.
"What does this have to do with my laptop?"
Ethan's gaze locked onto Alexander's.
"I thought maybe... you were involved."
Alexander's face darkened.
"You thought I was betraying our family?"
Ethan's expression softened.
"I had to consider it, Alex. But I know you'd never betray us."
Alexander's voice turned cold.
"Who's behind this?"
Ethan's jaw clenched.
"We'll find out together. As brothers. As mafia."
Ethan paused, his eyes locked onto Alexander's.
"And there's something else. Ava... she's not who you think she is."
Alexander's eyes widened.
"What do you mean?"
Ethan's expression turned serious.
