Silent love

Chapter 37

On the previous chapter...

I studied him for a second, tilting my head. "You ever say anything that isn't cryptic, or is that just part of your whole persona?"

His smirk widened slightly as he slung his jacket over his shoulder. "Where's the fun in being predictable?"

I hummed, unimpressed. "Right, of course. Can't have you ruining your whole brooding mystery act".

He exhaled a quiet chuckle but didn't respond, stepping past me toward the door. "I'd stay longer, but you know..." He gave a lazy shrug. "Rico wouldn't like it if I spent too much time with you".

A small laugh escaped me. "Federico doesn't control my life, Immanuel. You can stick around if you want".

He didn't seem phased, just gave me a look that said he wasn't so sure. "Still, he's got that whole 'overprotective' vibe going on. I don't need to be on his radar".

Then, after a beat, he smirked again. "For people who claim they don't get along, you and Federico sure spend a lot of time talking".

I crossed my arms, tilting my head. "I'm just helping him with some things, that's all".

He hummed, unconvinced. "Whatever you say, princess".

ʚ FEDERICO'S POV ɞ

I stood at the head of the long table, arms crossed, eyes scanning the map spread out beneath me.

Red markings circled key names and routes.

Every dot was someone loyal to Valerio.

Every line was something I planned to cut.

Behind me, the door opened with a soft creak. Silvio walked in first, tie loose, sleeves rolled, a toothpick in the corner of his mouth like always.

Immanuel followed silently, a shadow slipping in and taking his usual spot near the window, always near an exit, always watching.

Seraphina was last. She didn't walk in.

She stormed.

Hair still wet from a shower, no makeup, hoodie pulled over her head like she didn't care what day it was.

"You should be in bed". I said flatly, not looking up.

She ignored me. "I've been in bed. I'm done playing dead while that bastard keeps breathing".

Silvio let out a low whistle. "Good morning to you too".

Immanuel just gave a nod in her direction before turning back to the skyline outside.

I sighed, pushing the map toward them. "Valerio's shipments are being slowed down. France interfered with the last two. Russian banks froze three accounts this morning. It's starting".

Silvio leaned over, eyes narrowing. "You think he noticed yet?"

"He will by tonight". I said. "And when he starts scrambling, we hit him harder".

Seraphina slid into a seat, eyes dark. "Let me be part of that".

"No". I said immediately. "You're not ready".

She is out for revenge. I get that. But being blinded by it, creates loose ends. You don't think clear and will make impulsive decisions.

We don't need that in this mission.