Chapter 33

Matten forcefully pushed open the heavy door leading to the apartment building. His gaze was instantly captured by a large black SUV parked right by the curb. He slowed his pace as the vehicle’s door swung open, revealing none other than his cousin stepping out. Alessio slammed the door shut behind him and adjusted the cuff of his shirt more firmly beneath his suit jacket, his lips pressed into a tight, determined line.

“Dao, Digino,” Alessio greeted curtly.

Matten approached his cousin with purposeful strides. “So, it’s true. Michele has called a meeting,” he said, the weight of the news settling in his voice.

“Come,” Alessio replied, nodding toward the car. His eyes flicked up toward the towering building as if something unseen had caught his attention. A brief shake of his head conveyed silent disapproval before he climbed back into the SUV.

Matten circled to the rear of the vehicle and pulled out his phone. His finger hovered over a contact name, but just then an incoming text appeared on the screen.

Leo: I’ve got her. Go.

Suppressing the urge to look around for Leo’s hiding spot, Matten slid into the SUV. He reached into the pocket of his sweatpants, pulled out a pack of cigarettes, and quickly lit one. Taking two deep drags, he finally turned his attention back to Alessio.