Author's POV

Collin gulped down the lump in his throat as his eyes locked on the gun. He sucked in a deep breath, his mind racing with possibilities. He knew Lorenzo wasn't the one to make empty threats. The air was thick with tension, their eyes boring into each other's.

“Come on, Lorenzo. You're taking things too far,” Collin spoke in calm voice.

“You know you don't have to do this…” He added, gnashing his teeth.

Lorenzo cocked the gun, still aiming it at Collin, a fierce expression on his face.

“You have to choose one, Collin. Emerald or the Mafia..” He threatened, his voice cutting through the thick silence...