The moment Aria disappeared, something inside Rafael Romano shattered.
For several seconds after the black van vanished into the rain-soaked darkness, he simply stood in the middle of the street, completely motionless.The world around him continued moving.His men were shouting.Gunfire still echoed in the distance.
Noah barked orders into his communication device while security teams rushed around them.But Rafael heard none of it.
The only thing he could hear was Aria's terrified scream and the only thing he could feel was her hand slipping from his grasp.A hand he had promised never to let go.
Rain poured down on his face, mixing with blood and smoke as he stared at the empty road where the van had disappeared.
Then suddenly rage exploded inside him.A nearby vehicle door crumpled under his fist as he slammed it with enough force to dent the metal.Everyone nearby fell silent.Noah grabbed his shoulder immediately.
"Rafael."
No response.
"Rafael!"
Slowly, Rafael looked up.
