Nicola froze once more, his entire body trembling with bottled-up rage.

Samule welcomed him inside with open arms. "Your grandfather is waiting for you."

Nicola said, "You don't work for my father. You are employed by Ferra. "

Before slamming back into my ribs with full force, the gun's pressure let up a little. My cries of pain were caught by his hand, and Nicola's face contorted in anger.

"Go in, "Samule said again, his voice smooth with resentment. "We'll be following close behind. "

Nicola reached for the doorknob behind him without breaking eye contact with me. His attention was fixed on the weapon at my side.

Since his...