ANTHONIO’s POV

I pulled Aria along with me, her struggles futile as I dragged her through the secret passageway. My heart raced with excitement, my mind reveling in the thrill of the chase. I had outsmarted Matteo and his friends, and now I had the prize.

 As we emerged into the hallway, I quickened my pace, my eyes scanning the area for any signs of pursuit. I spotted one of my vans, parked discreetly in the shadows, and made a beeline for it.

 I tossed Aria into the back, her muffled cries music to my ears. I bound her hands and legs with rope, silencing her protests with a rough...