Chapter 9 - The ReckoningDownstairs, the battle was reaching its bloody conclusion.
Antonio’s hitmen had severely underestimated the Romano family’s firepower. Matteo and his men, heavily armed and utilizing the mansion’s reinforced choke points, had ambushed the intruders in the grand foyer.
By the time Allessandro dragged Isabella down the grand staircase by her arm, the shooting had stopped. Smoke filled the air, smelling of gunpowder and ozone. Five of Antonio's men lay disarmed and hand-cuffed on the blood-stained marble floor.
Standing in the center of the foyer, surrounded by Romano enforcers, was Antonio himself—bloody, bruised, his hands tied behind his back.
When Antonio saw Allessandro coming down the stairs, dragging a crying Isabella, his face turned pale.
"Allessandro... wait!" Antonio pleaded, his voice shaking. "It wasn't my idea! It was Moretti! Don Moretti forced us! He threatened to kill our entire bloodline if we didn't wipe you out!"
Allessandro shoved Isabella onto the marble floor beside her brother. She huddled against Antonio, sobbing hysterically.
"You brought violence into my home," Allessandro said, stepping over shattered glass. "You corrupted my bride. You threatened an innocent six-year-old child. And you thought you were smart enough to take my crown."
Allessandro looked at Matteo. "Is the perimeter secure?"
"Yes, Boss," Matteo reported, wiping blood from a minor cheek cut. "The rest of their crew is dead or fled. Dr. Vance is tending to Marco upstairs—he's going to be fine."
"Good," Allessandro said. He turned back to Antonio and Isabella. "You wanted the Romano estate? You wanted my wealth? You're going to get a front-row seat to what happens to traitors."
He looked at Matteo. "Put them in the back of the van. Take them to the harbor warehouse. I'll deal with Don Moretti personally by midnight."
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"Please, Allessandro! Have mercy!" Isabella screamed, begging on her knees as two large enforcers dragged her away. "I loved you! Please!"
Allessandro didn't even look back as her screams faded out the front entrance.
