In the dimly lit confines of an abandoned location, Dante observed as his men walked in, young Eli. The boy's eyes, wide with fear, brimmed with tears as he clutched a small toy, his voice trembling.
"I want my mommy," Eli whimpered, his gaze moving around the unfamiliar room.
Dante approached slowly, crouching to meet Eli's eye level. His tone was calm, almost soothing.
"Eli, your mother is a very good friend of mine. She's very worried about you. If you behave and stay calm, I'll make sure she knows you're safe and can come see you soon."
Eli's sons subsided slightly, his small frame still trembling. He nodded hesitantly, wiping his tears with the back of his hand.
Dante signaled to one of his men, who brought in a tray with some food and a glass of water.
"Here, have something to
