**Stefano’s POV**
Why did I allow her to stay in the hospital?
I had let my guard down. Of course, I knew she wouldn't listen to me; she had that stubborn fire in her eyes when she told me she needed to pack to stay by her father’s side. I should have forced her to stay. I should have dragged her home.
Fucking Armando.
I muttered a curse under my breath and dragged a hand down my face. That sniper had no right to try to kill that bastard. Armando was mine to break. Armando was mine to kill. No one else was allowed to touch him.
My jaw tightened until it ached. My mind drifted back to Elena, to her empty bedroom, to the way the house felt empty and cold without her presence. I didn't even realize I had spoken aloud until the words slipped out.
"I miss her!"
A soft click sounded from
