Marco's pov..
Marco couldn't believe the words coming out of his father's mouth. Engaged? To Alessia? His eyes darted to her, and he saw the same shock reflected in her expression. This was the woman who had stormed into the abandoned house, gun drawn, demanding answers about Tony. And now she was to be his fiancée?
He forced himself to stay calm, nodding along as their parents continued discussing wedding plans. His mind, however, was racing. How could his father spring this on him without any warning? And how would Alessia react once she learned about Tony's betrayal?
After the dinner, Marco found a moment alone with Alessia. "Look," he began, his tone softening, "I didn't know about this engagement either. We're both blindsided here."
Alessia's eyes flashed with anger. "You expect me to believe that? First, you accuse Tony of betrayal, and now this? What kind of game are you playing?"
Marco ran a hand through his hair, exasperated. "This isn't a game. Tony did betray us. He stole information and vanished. We need to find him and figure out who he's working with."
Alessia crossed her arms, glaring at him. "Fine. Let's find Tony. But this doesn't mean I trust you."
The drive to the docks was tense, neither of them speaking. Marco's thoughts were a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. He glanced at Alessia, her jaw set in determination. Despite their differences, he couldn't help but admire her resolve.
Arriving at the docks, Marco's phone buzzed. A message from one of his informants. "Tony's been spotted near the old warehouse," he said, showing the message to Alessia.
"Let's go," she replied, her voice steely.
They moved cautiously through the shadows, guns drawn. Marco's heart pounded in his chest as they approached the warehouse. This was it. They would confront Tony and get the answers they needed.
Inside the warehouse, the air was thick with tension. Tony was tied to a chair, blood dripping from his face. Marco's anger flared at the sight of his former ally. "Tony, why?" he demanded, stepping closer.
Tony's eyes were filled with fear. "I had no choice," he whispered. "They threatened my family."
Before Marco could respond, a shot rang out. Alessia screamed, clutching her side as blood seeped through her fingers. Tony had managed to free one hand and fired at her.
Rage consumed Marco. He lunged at Tony, disarming him with a swift blow. "You son of a bitch," he growled, his voice trembling with fury. Without hesitation, he pulled the trigger, ending Tony's life.
Marco turned to Alessia, who was struggling to stay conscious. "Hold on," he said, scooping her into his arms. "You're going to be okay."
The drive to the hospital was a blur of flashing lights and sirens. Marco's mind was singularly focused on keeping Alessia alive. "Stay with me," he whispered, his voice cracking. "We need you."
The hospital staff rushed her into surgery, leaving Marco pacing the waiting room, his thoughts a chaotic mess. He couldn't lose her. Not now. Not when everything was spiraling out of control.
As he waited, Marco's phone buzzed again. A message from his father: "We need to talk. Urgent."
Marco's heart sank. There was no telling what other revelations awaited them. But for now, all he could do was pray that Alessia would pull through.