"But I also think you'll cooperate when I give you the right reason." Vee assured her.
Val's eyes narrowed. "What reason?"
"Matteo is currently with me. You work for my money," Vee said, "or I throw his lifeless body at your feet."
Every trace of colour disappeared from Val's face.
"You will not!" Her chair scraped against the floor as she jerked forward against the cuffs. "You will not touch him! No matter how far gone you are in this madness, you cannot hurt him!" Val yelled. She looked truly terrified.
"You're right," Vee said.
Val stopped struggling.
Relief flickered across her face.
Vee got to her feet. "I can't.... But Don can."
"Vee! Don't hurt my baby," Val cried.
"You did this!" Vee snapped. "You did! Actions come with consequences. You had everything handed to you, Val. Everything. And you tore everyone down with your fucking crusade."
"I was trying to help—"
