~ ALEXANDRO'S POV ~

The docks smelled like death and saltwater.

I crouched behind a shipping container, checking my Glock one final time. Around me, twelve of my best men waited in the shadows, their faces hard and ready. This wasn't going to be a negotiation. This was war.

"Radio check," I whispered into my earpiece.

"Antonio here. The east side is clear."

"Mario, south entrance."

"All quiet on my end, boss."

"Luca, how's our precious cargo?"

There was a pause before Luca's voice crackled through. "Safehouse is secure. The ladies are... entertaining each other with some card game. Lauren keeps asking about you."

I felt something twist in my...