Romano's POV

I stood frozen, my gaze locked onto him, willing myself to gather the courage to confront him. He was not an easy man to face, yet I had to stand my ground and explain why I had taken down his favored son—even if it would not sit well with him.

“Sit,” he commanded, and I found myself obeying, sinking into the chair opposite him almost against my will.

“Care for some vodka?” he asked, feigning kindness, but I knew better. Years spent in his presence had revealed the ...