Tony took another step, his voice dripping with condescension. "He doesn't deserve the air he breathes, let alone the love you give him. He's nobody. He's—"
BANG.
This time, Matteo didn't aim for the air. The shot came from pure fury. The bullet tore through Tony's shoulder, the impact forcing him to stagger before he hit the ground.
Tony let out a choked cry, clutching his shoulder as blood began to seep through his fingers, staining his shirt.
Matteo rose slowly, his presence casting over Tony. The coldness in his eyes was gone, replaced by something far worse a quiet, focused intent.
"Say one more word about him," Matteo said, his voice low and deadly as he stepped closer, pressing the barrel of the gun against Tony's forehead. "Give me a reason… and I'll finish what you started."
No one moved.
The guards stood frozen.
Mark didn't look up.
Matteo didn't take his eyes off him.
"Mat…" Tony said, his voice strained. "You shot me…"
Matteo didn't react.
