Chapter 15
Vincent stepped out onto the grand stone balcony, looking down at his men with cold, unwavering authority.
"Seven years ago," Vincent began, his deep voice carrying clearly over the gusting wind, "my family suffered a tragedy that burned a hole into the heart of this organization. I believed it was the work of our enemies outside these walls. Today, I learned that the knife was placed in our back by those who swore oaths of loyalty to my blood."
A murmur rippled through the assembled guards. Russo kept his head bowed, sweating profusely despite the freezing temperatures.
"Dante Moretti has been stripped of his rank and authority," Vincent continued coldly. "Any man who lined his pockets with Dante’s blood money or aided his secret dealings with the Cassanos will be given one choice: step forward now and speak the full truth, or face the consequences of high treason."
Before anyone could move, a sharp, muffled crack echoed from the tree line beyond the eastern perimeter fence. A high-caliber sniper round shattered the stone balustrade inches from Vincent’s shoulder, sending shards of marble flying through the air.
"Sniper! Get the Boss inside!" Marco shouted, drawing his sidearm instantly as panic erupted in the courtyard.
Simultaneously, two heavily armored SUVs crashed through the wrought-iron security gates at the estate entrance, opening automatic fire into the courtyard. It was an immediate, ruthless assault—a desperate strike launched by Dante’s outside co-conspirators to silence the estate before Dante could talk.
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Vincent did not run for cover. He drew his custom black pistol from his shoulder holster, his movements smooth and deadly as he returned fire toward the advancing attackers. "Marco! Secure the main wing! Clara and Ellie are inside!"
Vincent leaped over the stone balcony railing, landing heavily on the cobblestones below, determined to protect the house that held the innocent lives currently under his care.
