Chapter 11 - The Clearing of the North Wing
The morning sun rose over the Langhe hills, cutting through the autumn fog with a cold, unforgiving light. The blood in the vineyard had already been washed away by the estate’s security detail, but the scent of cordite still lingered faintly in the gravel courtyards.
Matteo Santoro sat at the head of the long dining table. He had not slept. His dark three-piece suit was immaculate, the silver tie clip fastened with absolute precision, but the gray eyes behind his lashes carried a heavy, altered gravity.
Luca, the estate manager, stood at attention near the double doors, holding a thick leather portfolio.
"The Barone strike team was entirely eliminated," Luca reported in a low, measured tone. "Two bodies recovered from the vineyard. Their comms devices point directly to a secondary cell operating out of an industrial warehouse in Turin. Shall we move in, Boss?"
Matteo poured a single cup of dark espresso. He didn't drink it immediately. He stared at the dark surface of the liquid, watching his own reflection ripple.
"Not yet," Matteo said. His voice lacked its usual icy bite; it was quieter, deeper, like stone grinding against stone. "Barone sent a message to my house. He crossed a line that cannot be uncrossed. But before we dismantle his network in Turin, I want the north wing fortified."
Luca blinked, surprised. "Fortified, sir? You want to increase security around the staff quarters?"
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"I want biometric locks installed on every door in the north wing," Matteo commanded, his gaze rising to meet Luca's. "I want double patrols rotating every forty minutes. And Luca..." Matteo paused, his jaw tightening slightly. "Move Elena and the child into the guest suite adjacent to the private library. The rooms there are reinforced with ballistic glass."
Luca nodded slowly, a profound realization dawning in his old eyes. "Subito, Boss. It will be done before noon."
