You sat quietly in the living room, trying to steady your breath, your hand trembling as it touched the fresh bruise on your neck—the shape of Reid’s hand still evident. A cut on your forehead throbbed, but you tried to ignore the pain. Suddenly, Roman Valente, Reid’s father, walked in. His sharp eyes locked onto you, and his expression darkened.

“What happened?” Roman’s voice was low, commanding, as he took a step closer. You hesitated, knowing the weight of his anger.

Before you could respond, Roman stormed out of the room, returning moments later with Reid in his grasp. He dragged Reid in front of you, fury radiating from him.

Roman shoved Reid against the wall, his voice a menacing growl. “If you ever lay a finger on her again,” he snarled, “I’ll kill you myself. Consider this your only warning.”