Carlino’s POV
What I let myself feel wasn't because I lack restraint. But because she needs to understand that restraint is a choice. And I am running out of reasons to choose it.
The hallway parts when I stepped into it. Men straightened. Radios go quiet. Boots align. Fear was efficient. I cultivated it.
“Status.”
Niel falls into step beside me immediately.
“Perimeter secure. East and south wings reinforced. Two injured, non-critical.”
“Injuries?”
“Grazes.”
“Replace them,” I said.
He hesitates. “They’re still functional.”
“They hesitated,” I correct. “Replace them.”
Weak links aren’t just punished. They’re removed.
We enter the security room. The air smells like coffee and tension. Screens flicker. Footage replays on loop — the vehicle cutting through my gates like it owns th
