Page 116 of Beneath the Shadows

My father.

Draco Moretti never does anything without a purpose. This was a message he knew I couldn’t ignore—a warning that he’s done waiting. My hands tremble as I grab my phone, dialing the number I know by heart. It rings once before he picks up, his voice slithering through the receiver, smug and full of venom.

“I thought that might get your attention,” my father says, his tone dripping with satisfaction.

My grip tightens on the phone. “What the hell do you think you’re doing?” I spit, my words laced with fury.

“Is that any way to greet your father?” he replies smoothly.

“What do you want?”

“I’m merely reminding you of the promise you’ve broken.”

“Ihaven’t made any promises,” I snap, my voice trembling despite my efforts to stay calm. “You’re trying to scare me, but it’s not going to work.”

“Scare you?” he laughs, sharp and cruel. “No, darling. I’m simply ensuring you understand where your true obligations lie. I’ve already arranged your future—my gift was just a reminder of your place.”

“I know myplace,father. It’s with my husband,” I force out, my voice filled with as much conviction as I can muster.

There’s a pause, a chilling silence that stretches out before he speaks again. “We both know your marriage is a charade,” he says, his voice darkening. “But don’t worry—I can take care of that.”

I have to make him believe this marriage is real. “It’s not a charade. I’m in love with Antonio,” I lie, desperation creeping in. “And I’m pregnant with his child.”

The silence that follows is suffocating. I hold my breath, hoping it will be enough to stop him. But when he speaks again, his voice is colder than ever. “Pregnant?” he spits, disgust saturating the word. “You think that will stop me? That I’ll abandon my plans because you’re carrying his bastard? You’re even more foolish than I thought.”

Fear surges through me. “Papa, please?—”

“I promised you to another,” he snaps, cutting me off. “And I intend to keep that promise. I was willing to let Antonio remain alive, even though he took you without my blessing. Now, you’ve left me with no choice but to kill him.”

“Don’t you dare,” I hiss, a mix of anger and fear twisting inside me. “If you touch him, I swear?—”

“Watch your mouth, little girl,” he sneers. “Tell your husband his days are numbered. I’m coming for him, and when I’m done, there won’t be anything left of the man you claim to love.”

The words hit like a slap. Before I can respond, the line goes dead. I’m left sitting on the couch, the phone still clutched in my hand.

What have I done?

Cold dread settles over me as my father’s words echo in my mind. What was I thinking, telling him I’m pregnant? I thought I could protect Antonio, make my father back off. Instead, I’ve only made things worse.

Somehow, I have to find the courage to tell Antonio. The thought of his reaction terrifies me. Will he see this as a betrayal? Will there be consequences?

My legs feel like lead as I make my way to his office, the door open just like he promised. I pause outside, my heart racing as I overhear Antonio and Dante in conversation, their voices low and serious.

“You need more security,” Dante insists. “Guards at the house and a security alarm system.”

“I won’t turn this house into another cage to keep her locked in,” Antonio replies firm, but weary.

“It doesn’t have to be forever. But until this threat is dealt with, we can’t leave her or you exposed.”

“I don’t need a security system,” Antonio argues. “I’m perfectly capable of protecting my wife.”

“I’m not saying you aren’t,” Dante counters. “But men like Draco don’t play by the same rules. We need to be prepared.”

“I’ve already increased the number of guards.”

“You need an actual security system and guards at the doors,” Dante presses. “Think about it, Anton. It’s not just about us anymore it’s about protecting Alessia.”

Antonio’s trying so hard to keep his word, to make me feel safe, and I’ve gone and made everything worse. Swallowing hard, I step forward.

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