The rescue operation for Luca was launched under the cover of darkness, the warehouse district near the East River shrouded in fog and tension. Aria sat in the command vehicle with a small backup team, but her eyes were fixed on the live feed from Dante’s body cam. She refused to stay behind completely — she had come too far from the trembling girl who once cried in Dante’s penthouse. Now she was the queen who fought for her family.
“Stay in position,” Dante’s voice came through her earpiece, low and commanding. “I’m going in with the main team. You provide overwatch.”
Aria’s heart pounded, but her voice was steady. “I’m ready. Bring my brother home.”
The assault began at midnight. Gunfire erupted as Dante’s forces breached the warehouse. Aria watched the feed with laser focus, directin
