Page 21 of Crimson Reign

"I'm not asking for anything," Matteo says quietly. "I know it's too soon. I know it's complicated. What happened... it wasn't a mistake. Not for me."

I close my eyes. "I need time."

"You have it. All the time you need."

"Thank you. For understanding. For keeping us safe."

His expression softens. "Always."

At the doorway, I pause. "What happens now? With the Caruso?"

A cold smile curves his lips. "Now we cut off their oxygen. Their money."

His phone rings. "That's Angelo."

He puts the phone on speaker. "You're on with Elena and me."

"Matteo," Angelo's voice comes through. "I cracked it. The encryption on the Caruso's financial network. You were right—they've been moving money through shell companies. As of twenty minutes ago, they can't access a single cent. I've locked them out of everything."

A slow, predatory smile spreads across Matteo's face. "What happens to men like the Caruso when they can't access their funds?"

"They panic," I answer, understanding dawning. "They make mistakes."

"Exactly. Now we wait. ”

8

Matteo

Igroanasmycockpulses like velvet steel in my hand. The release draws a snarl from my lips as ropes of hot cum spray against the tiled wall of the shower before dripping heavily to the floor. I lean an arm against the tile and rest my forehead on it. My chest heaves as I watch the last of my fantasy swirl down the drain.

It’s the fourth time I’ve done this since that kiss with Elena.

That was eleven fucking hours ago.

Since then, since that first taste of her swollen, full, soft lips, I’ve pictured her in a dozen different fantasies.

Stretched out on my desk, holding her knees up against her magnificent tits as I drive my cock into her.

Bent over, whining for more as I pump gallons of hot cum up her ass.

On her knees in my shower, swallowing every drop from my swollen cock head like a good girl.

I knew bringing her further into my world would be problematic. I knew it would throw me, given the confusing swirl of emotions I have for her.

But I'm not sure I adequately prepared myself for the hurricane of destruction she's already bringing into my head and thoughts.

I towel off after the shower before heading into my walk-in closet to dress for the meeting with my men.

My jaw tightens as I stare at the surveillance photos spread across my desk, each one another component of the trap I'm setting.

Girls with hollow eyes. Shipping manifests with coded destinations. Bank transactions laundered through a dozen accounts.

And at the center of it all—Massimo Caruso.

"You're sure about this intel?" I ask Valentino, who stands beside me despite the bandages visible beneath his shirt. The bastard took a bullet for us days ago, yet here he is.

"Positive, boss." He taps one photo. “Massimo will be there personally to oversee the arrival.”

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