•MATTEO’S POV•

I had prepared myself for many betrayals in my life, but nothing……absolutely nothing, could have readied me for this.

Austin stood before me, his expression a perfect mix of defiance and something darker…..something twisted and for a split moment, he looked different. His words rang in my ears, cold and cutting.

“I’m Phantasma, Matteo. How’s my surprise? Do you love it?” He asked smiling smugly.

It felt as though the air had been sucked out of the room. My fists clenched at my sides as I stared at the man I had considered my closest friend. No……as family. The weight of his betrayal pressed against my chest, threatening...