AllFreeNovel
Share Us
We had encountered a larger enemy force than anticipated, resulting in numerous injuries among my men. While we had casualties, the toll was minimal compared to the losses Gaetano suffered.
“We have him and his brother locked up separately, and the place is heavily secured.”
“And Vasiliev?”
“He’s still around but keeping his distance.”
“Of course he is.” I shook my head. “I want eyes on him at all times.”
I turned my attention to the door when it opened.
“You good?” Lorenzo asked as he stepped inside.
“Still breathing.”
“You look like shit.”
“And yet I’m still better looking than you.” I shot back, and he cracked a smile. “How’s Cara?”
“She’ll pull through.” Lorenzo murmured, rubbing his jaw with a frown. I knew that feeling too well; the sense of helplessness when there was nothing he could do but wait and hope for the best. “Althaia is with her now.” He said, and I sighed.
It had been over twenty-four hours, and not once did Althaia leave my side until I woke up, ensuring I would be okay. Then she became restless, pacing back and forth, before deciding to check on everyone else.
“How is she handling the news?” Antonio asked.
“I’m not sure. She hasn’t mentioned it, yet.”
“Denial.” Lorenzo commented, and I nodded. Our attention shifted to the door when it opened again.
“Oh... Am I disturbing you?” Althaia asked as she looked at us.
“No. Come here.” I extended my hand as she entered.
“We’ll give you some privacy.” Antonio and Lorenzo nodded respectfully at Althaia as they passed her.
She placed her hand in mine and sat on the chair next to the bed. Her eyes flickered around, showing a conflicted expression before she finally met my gaze.
“How do you feel? Are you in a lot of pain?” She looked at my bandaged torso.
“I’m fine.” I reassured her, and her shoulders sagged in relief. We sat in silence, and I watched her play with my fingers while she avoided looking at me.
“Althaia -”
“Cara is going to make it.” She suddenly said, still not looking at me. “Michael too. Gio and Luca are getting fixed up as well. Arianna was awake, but she’s sleeping now, so…”
She continued to update me on everyone’s well-being. I already knew the status, but I let her continue, wanting her to talk instead of remaining silent and drowning in her thoughts.
“And you? What’s the status on you?” I asked. A small smile appeared on her lips at my question.
“Well, I did get shot, so I had to get my arm stitched. My nose is not broken, just sore from the hit, so I will say I got pretty lucky.” Althaia let out a small breath before finally looking at me.
I looked at her for a while and she squirmed around in her seat. It was obvious she was battling something inside her head.
“What’s on your mind?”
“Everything.” She forced out a chuckle before biting down on her lip.
“Tell me.” I spoke to her softly, and her eyes started to glisten.
