~ Niamh ~
A sharp scream tore out of my throat, but Massimo covered my mouth immediately with a long-fingered, calloused palm.
"Shh," he whispered, his eyes like ice, trained on the entrance of the hallway. With his other hand, he pulled a gun from inside his suit jacket.
My eyes widened as the weight of the reality hit me—I had just slapped a man who was carrying a loaded weapon.
Another shot rang out from outside, the sound echoing through the house and interrupting my thoughts. My body shuddered heavily as I gripped Massimo's arm in a desperate hold.
"Niamh, calm down." His voice was soothing and dangerous at the same time. "You're going to go inside the playroom and stay with Matteo. Lock yourselves up. I'll ensure no one comes close to this hallway. Do you understand?"
I nodded vehemently, my head bobbing as I fought the urge to hyperventilate. He squeezed my shoulders reassuringly before guiding me toward the door of Matteo's playroom.
