77. A Brother's Shame

Matteo's study was a sanctuary of luxury, the walls lined with leather-bound books and the fireplace crackling with warmth. But on this particular evening, the atmosphere was tense, heavy with the weight of secrets and lies. Gia knocked on the door, her knuckles rapping against the wood with a sense of determination. She didn't wait for a response. She pushed the door open and walked in.

"Matteo, we need to talk," she announced, her voice firm but laced with a hint of sarcasm.

Matteo looked up from his desk, his eyes narrowing as he took in Gia's stance. "What is it, Gia? I'm busy."

Gia snorted and rolled her eyes. "Busy? Do you mean busy plotting your next move to keep Aria captive? Or busy conjuring up more lies to feed your ego?"

Matteo's expression darkened, his jaw clenched in irritation. "Gia, you're pushing your luck."