DEADLY DECEPTION

CHAPTER 41

Rick's POV

The scent of home—fresh bread, espresso, something warm simmering on the stove—wrapped around me as my mother's voice echoed through the house.

"Carlo! Vieni qui subito!"

I ran, bare feet slapping against the tile floor, laughter bubbling in my chest as she chased me with the dreaded cup in her hand.

"Mamma, no! It stinks!" I darted around the dining table, dodging her grip. "I don't wanna drink it!"

" Veriano Carlo Rossi, don't make me—"

I didn't hear the rest. My feet collided with something solid, and before I could hit the floor, large hands caught me.

Uncle Rafael.

"Zio!" I cheered, arms flying around his neck as he lifted me effortlessly. "Save me!"

Rafael chuckled, deep and rich, ruffling my hair. "Ah, mio ragazzo. What's this trouble you're causing your mamma, huh?"

I pouted, gripping his shirt. "She wants me to drink that nasty egg. It smells bad!"

My mother shot Rafael a look—one that begged for help. He sighed, shaking his head before turning his gaze back to me.

"Carlo, you want to be strong, sì?" His voice softened, but there was that knowing look in his eyes. "Like your papa? Like me?"

I nodded quickly.

"Then you drink it."

My lips parted in betrayal. "Zio..."

Before I could argue, footsteps sounded from the doorway. A presence. Heavy, commanding.

"What's my little boy doing?"

I stiffened, eyes darting up to meet my father's sharp, unreadable gaze.

Eros Rossi.

He stepped further in, dark eyes scanning the room—the untouched cup in my mother's hands, the way I clung to Rafael, the way my mother sighed in frustration.

"Your son refuses to drink the egg, Eros." My mother's voice held exasperation.

My father arched a brow, tilting his head slightly.

I knew that look.

I clung tighter to Rafael. "Zio, save me from the monster!"

A deep, rumbling chuckle came from Rafael's chest, and he took a dramatic step back. "Don't worry, mio ragazzo, I've got you—"

My father lunged.

I shrieked, Rafael bolting through the room with me in his arms as my father chased after us. Laughter erupted from my chest as Rafael picked up speed, zigzagging around furniture while my father growled behind us.

"Faster, Zio!"

My father caught up in seconds. His strong arms wrapped around me, lifting me from Rafael's hold before spinning me around.

I laughed so hard my stomach hurt.

When he finally stopped, Rafael held up the dreaded cup. "Now, Carlo. Drink."

I groaned, shooting my mother a pleading look. She only folded her arms, expectant.

I sighed dramatically and took the cup.