Page 22 of Crimson Reign

I nod, cold satisfaction settling in my chest.

Elena was right. The trafficking operation isn't just business for Massimo—it's personal.

His signature. His pride.

His weakness.

And he'll be there in person, unable to resist.

"Leak this to the Verratti family," I say, sliding several documents across the desk to Valentino. "Make sure it reaches Ronaldo directly."

Nico's eyebrows lift. "The Verrattis have been looking to expand into that territory for years."

"Exactly. They'll move immediately, and Massimo will defend his operation personally." I check my watch. "We'll be waiting."

"The men are ready," Julian says from the doorway. "We move tonight."

I straighten, mentally calculating contingencies, escape routes, potential collateral.

"I'm coming with you."

The voice from behind Julian stops my thoughts. Elena stands in the hallway, posture straight, and her chin lifted in that stubborn angle I recognize.

"No," I say flatly.

She steps into the room. "I wasn't asking permission."

Nico, Julian, and Valentino exchange glances, then silently retreat, closing the door.

Cowards.

"This isn't a debate, Elena."

"You need someone with a knowledge of financial movements while setting a trap for Massimo." She cuts me off, placing her palms on my desk. "You need someone who understands forensic accounting, who can follow the money trail in real-time."

Her eyes burn with determination that both infuriates and captivates me. The same look she had when she plunged a knife into an assassin's throat.

"It's too dangerous."

"More dangerous than being left behind when a mole in your organization could compromise your safe houses? More dangerous than sitting here while you walk into what could be a trap?"

That lands like a punch. She's not wrong. I still haven’t found out who leaked our location at the hospital.

"Besides," she continues, softer, "I need to do this. For Mark. For Fiona. For myself."

I search her face for fear or hesitation. There is none. Just resolve and a hunger for justice that mirrors my own.

"If I agree, you follow every order without question. You stay by my side. And at the first sign of trouble, you get out. No heroics."

A ghost of a smile touches her lips. "I think I've used up my hero quota for the month."

"This isn't a joke."

"Do I look like I'm laughing?" She straightens. "I know what's at stake. I've lost almost everything tothese people."

"Fine," I relent. "But you'll wear a vest, and you'll be armed."

She nods, victory flashing in her eyes.

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