I pulled my hand from Antonio’s and ran it over my face. Russo was alive, that mattered, but everything else… everything else was a mess. I had to focus. I couldn’t let anger cloud judgment.
“Alright,” I said finally, my voice firmer than I felt. “First, Russo’s safety. Then we deal with the rest.” Antonio nodded and stepped back. I didn’t need anyone else arguing with me right now.
I stayed by Russo’s side until he stirred. His eyes fluttered open slowly, confusion and pain written across his face. “Rafael…” His voice was hoarse.
“I’m here,” I said, letting relief creep into me, though I couldn’t let it settle fully. “You’re safe now. That’s what matters.”
He coughed lightly, then blinked at me, trying to piece things together. I watched him carefully, noting every wince, every trembl
