Shattered Composure

Dante knew he had to buy some time, then seize the right moment to intimidate Melanie, preventing her from doing something foolish.

“Dante, what are you talking about?” Diana suddenly spoke up. “We would never negotiate with a criminal.”

“Mom, now's not the time...” Dante quickly interjected, but he simply couldn't stop his mother.

Diana grabbed Melanie's hand and said, “Dear girl, I've said it be