CHAPTER THREE HUNDRED AND FORTY EIGHT – DESPERATE TIMES

"We need to make a stand," Marco said, bringing the car to a stop behind a derelict building. "My father's men should be here soon." They scrambled out of the car, taking cover behind some rusted machinery. The sound of screeching tires announced the arrival of their pursuers. "Well, well," a familiar voice called out. "Looks like the lovebirds are cornered." Jasmine peered around their cover to see Antonio Ricci himself stepping out of one of the SUVs, flanked by his thugs. "It's over, Ricci," Marco shouted back. "The authorities are onto you. Give yourself up!" Ricci laughed, a cold, mirthless sound. "Give myself up? I don't think so. No, I think it's time to end this little game once and for all." He nodded to his men, who began to fan out, weapons drawn. Jasmine and Marco exchanged a look, both knowing they were outgunned and outnumbered. Just as the situation seemed hopeless, the roar of engines filled the air. Don Cesaro's reinforcements had arrived, boxing in Ricci and hi