Chapter Seventeen - The Deeper Dive

Dante's eyes flashed dangerously. "You've always thought you were better than me. Well, I'm sick of living in your shadow!" Before anyone could react, Dante lunged across the table, his fist connecting with Alessandro's jaw. Chaos erupted as the brothers grappled, years of pent-up resentment exploding into violence. "Stop it! Both of you!" Eloise's voice cut through the commotion. She physically inserted herself between her brothers, pushing them apart. "This is madness! We're family, for God's sake!" Amelia stood frozen, shocked by the sudden outbreak of violence. As the brothers glared at each other, chests heaving, she could see the pain and frustration etched on both their faces. Giancarlo's voice was cold as he addressed his sons. "You will both retire to your rooms and stay there until you can behave like civilized human beings. This display is unacceptable." As the family dispersed, Alessandro's eyes met Amelia's. The shame and regret she saw there made her heart ache. He o