"I'm stating facts," Vittorio replied, holding his hands loosely at his sides. "This world is full of violence. People get hurt. Unless they have the right protection."
Isabella felt something inside her harden. All the fear and confusion turned into something like frustration. "I will think about it," she said, her voice firm.
Matteo turned toward her. "Isabella," he said, his tone warning.
"I said I will think about it," she repeated, not looking away from Vittorio.
Vittorio's smile widened. "Excellent. Take your time. But not too much time. I will be in touch."
He left the room as smoothly as he had entered, and the air seemed easier to breathe once he was gone.
"What the hell was that?" Matteo demanded, turning to her.
"Survival," Isabella said, her gaze still on the doorway.
"You're not seriously considering his offer," Matteo said, his voice tight.
