Chapter 35

Chapter Thirty-Five

“Does Conor know about this?” Messin asked cautiously, his eyes narrowing. “I’m guessing they did this to his…”

“No, he has no idea,” Michele cut in sharply, slamming a folder down on the table with finality. “Nor will he ever know.”

Matteo’s breath hitched slightly, his voice low and tight with something he refused to admit was fear. “What do you mean?”

“When Philip turned himself in, I made him a promise,” Michele explained, his tone unwavering. “Promises that cannot be broken. One of those was to protect his family at all costs. Conor was forced to push her out of his life, and as far as he knows—or ever will know—she’s studying in London, just like we planned.”

Alessio frowned, leaning forward. “Where is she really, Galante?”

“She escaped the Irish two days ago,” Michele said quietly. “Right now, she’s receiving treatment in a hospital in Edinburgh. Aside from the obvious injuries, she’s stable. Once she’s fully recovered, we’ll ensure she returns to school and has no further involvement in this mess. That was my vow, and I intend to keep it.”