Chapter 137

Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-Seven

Genevieve sat quietly at the dining table, wrapped snugly in Matteo’s oversized hoodie. She had pulled the soft fabric tightly around her body, drawing her knees close to her chest to soak in the comforting warmth of the worn garment. The hood was drawn up over her head, casting a shadow over her face and muffling the world around her. Beside her, Conor cradled a glass of vodka, his head resting heavily in his hand as he stared off into the distance. Across from them, in the living room, the others had gathered to hash out the details of what lay ahead. Leo and Alessio were locked in a heated debate about the venue for the apology between Genevieve and Michele. After two grueling hours, they had finally agreed on the date and time—two days from now at six in the evening. But the argument over the location was dragging into its third hour.

“We need strategic spots to hide our men,” Leo said through clenched teeth, frustration thick in his voice.

Alessio rolled his eyes in exasperation. “No. During an apology, you’re only allowed one man waiting in the shadows. One. Not a squad.”

Leo smirked with a hint of sarcasm. “Let me guess—you want to be that one man?”

“I’ll be there as the mediator,” Alessio replied coolly.

Leo shook his head. “Still, I think the docks are best. The hospital’s nearby, and we can station men in buildings, cars, even behind dumpsters.”