9. Threats Emerge

CHAPTER 9

THREATS EMERGE

The early morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow over Enzo's sleeping form. Matteo watched him from the doorway, his heart clenching with a mixture of affection and worry. Enzo looked so young, so vulnerable in sleep—a stark reminder of just how much danger they were in.

With a quiet sigh, Matteo approached the bed. He hated to wake Enzo, but duty called. "Baby," he murmured, gently shaking Enzo's shoulder. "Time to wake up."

Enzo stirred, blinking up at Matteo with sleepy eyes. "Mmm, five more minutes, Daddy," he mumbled, reaching for Matteo.

The pet name sent a jolt of heat through Matteo's body, but he pushed it aside. Now wasn't the time. "Come on, brat," he said, his voice firmer. "We've got work to do."

That seemed to wake Enzo up fully. He sat up, suddenly alert. "Right. The attack. What's the plan?"

Matteo's jaw clenched. This was the part he'd been dreading. "I need to go out, investigate some leads. You're staying here."

As expected, Enzo's eyes flashed with anger. "What? No way. I'm coming with you."

"It's not up for discussion," Matteo said, his tone brooking no argument. "It's too dangerous. I need you safe."

Enzo scrambled out of bed, not bothering to cover his naked form. Any other time, the sight would have been incredibly distracting. But Matteo was in full protector mode now.

"This is bullshit," Enzo spat. "I'm not some helpless kid, Matteo. I can help. I want to help."

Matteo took a deep breath, reminding himself to stay calm. "I know you're not helpless," he said. "But right now, the best way you can help is by staying put. We don't know who's behind this attack. Until we do, you're a target."

Enzo opened his mouth to argue further, but Matteo cut him off with a raised hand. "Enzo," he said, his voice low and dangerous. "Don't push me on this. Not now."

Something in Matteo's tone must have gotten through, because Enzo deflated slightly. "Fine," he muttered. "But I'm not just going to sit around twiddling my thumbs all day."

Matteo nodded, relieved to avoid a full-blown argument. "Good. Use your contacts, see what you can dig up. But be discreet. No unnecessary risks. Understood?"

"Yes, sir," Enzo said, a hint of his usual sass creeping back in.

Despite the tension, Matteo felt a smile tugging at his lips. He stepped closer, cupping Enzo's face in his hands. "I know this is frustrating," he said softly. "But I need you to trust me. Can you do that?"

Enzo leaned into the touch, his anger melting away. "I do trust you," he murmured. "Just... be careful out there, okay? Come back to me in one piece."

Matteo's heart swelled at the genuine concern in Enzo's voice. He leaned in, capturing Enzo's lips in a deep, passionate kiss. When they finally broke apart, both were breathless.

"I'll always come back to you," Matteo promised. "Always."

With one last lingering look, Matteo forced himself to leave. He had a job to do, and the sooner he got answers, the sooner he could return to Enzo's side.

As the door closed behind Matteo, Enzo flopped back onto the bed with a frustrated groan. He hated feeling useless, hated being left behind. But he'd meant what he said about trusting Matteo. If staying put was what Matteo needed from him, then that's what he'd do.

For now, at least.

After a quick shower, Enzo settled in the living room with his phone and laptop. Time to put his extensive network of contacts to use. He might be confined to the safe house, but that didn't mean he couldn't contribute to the investigation.

Hours passed in a blur of calls, texts, and encrypted messages. Enzo reached out to everyone from street-level dealers to high-society gossips, piecing together snippets of information. A new player in town. Whispers of discontent among the smaller families. Shipments of weapons coming in from overseas.

It wasn't much, but it was a start. Enzo's mind raced, trying to connect the dots. He was so absorbed in his work that he barely noticed the sun setting, casting long shadows across the room.

The sound of the front door opening jolted Enzo from his thoughts. He tensed, ready to grab the gun Matteo had insisted he keep nearby. But then Matteo's familiar footsteps echoed down the hall, and Enzo relaxed.

"In here," he called out, unable to keep the excitement from his voice. "I think I've found something."

Matteo appeared in the doorway, looking exhausted but alert. His eyes scanned the room, checking for any signs of trouble before settling on Enzo. "You okay?" he asked, moving closer.

Enzo nodded impatiently. "I'm fine. But listen, I've been digging, and?—"

"Hold that thought," Matteo interrupted, his voice gentle but firm. "Security check first. Then food. Then we'll compare notes. Okay?"

Enzo wanted to argue, but the weariness in Matteo's eyes made him reconsider. "Okay," he agreed. "But hurry up. I'm onto something big, I can feel it."

A hint of a smile played at Matteo's lips. "Yes, sir," he said, mimicking Enzo's earlier sass.

As Matteo made his rounds, checking locks and security systems, Enzo headed to the kitchen. He wasn't much of a cook, but he could manage sandwiches and coffee. It felt good to do something for Matteo, even something small.

When Matteo finally joined him in the kitchen, his eyes widened slightly at the spread. "You didn't have to do this," he said, genuine appreciation in his voice.

Enzo shrugged, trying to play it cool even as warmth bloomed in his chest. "Figured you'd be hungry after a day of badass investigating. Eat up, old man. You need to keep your strength up."

Matteo's eyes darkened at the teasing words. He moved closer, backing Enzo against the counter. "Watch that mouth, brat," he growled. "Or I might have to remind you who's in charge here."

Heat pooled in Enzo's belly at the threat. "Maybe that's what I want," he challenged, tilting his chin up defiantly.

For a moment, the air between them crackled with tension. Then Matteo stepped back, shaking his head ruefully. "Food first," he said. "Then work. Then, if you're very good, maybe I'll give you what you're asking for."

Enzo pouted but didn't argue. As much as he wanted to drag Matteo to bed right now, he knew they had more pressing matters to attend to.

They ate quickly, both eager to share what they'd learned. As soon as the last bite was swallowed, Enzo couldn't hold back anymore. "Okay, spill," he demanded. "What did you find out?"

Matteo's expression turned grim. "It's not good," he said. "The attack on the warehouse was just the beginning. There have been two more hits on Ricci businesses in the past 24 hours. Smaller targets, but the pattern is clear. Someone's trying to destabilize our operations."

Enzo's stomach dropped. "Shit. Any leads on who's behind it?"

Matteo nodded. "That's where it gets interesting. My sources say it's not just one rival family. It's a coalition of smaller outfits, banding together to take us down."

"Holy fuck," Enzo breathed. "That... actually makes sense with what I've found. I've been hearing whispers about a new player in town, someone with deep pockets and a grudge against the old families. What if they're bankrolling this coalition?"

Matteo's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "It's possible. What else have you got?"

Enzo launched into a detailed breakdown of everything he'd uncovered—the weapons shipments, the growing discontent among the smaller families, the subtle shifts in the city's underworld power dynamics.

As he spoke, Matteo listened intently, his expression growing more impressed by the moment. When Enzo finally finished, Matteo was looking at him with a mixture of pride and something darker, more possessive.

"You did good, baby," Matteo said, his voice low and warm. "Really good. I'm proud of you."

The praise sent a thrill through Enzo's body, making him flush with pleasure. "Thanks," he murmured, suddenly shy. "So, what do we do now?"

Matteo's expression turned serious. "Now, we put it all together. If we're right about this coalition, we need to figure out who's at the center of it. And more importantly, we need to find out what their next move is going to be."

Enzo nodded, already feeling his mind kick into high gear. "Okay, so let's break it down. We know they're targeting Ricci businesses, but in a specific pattern. What if we map out all our holdings and try to predict their next hit?"

"Good thinking," Matteo agreed. He moved to the living room, clearing space on the coffee table. "Get your laptop. We're going to need a detailed map of the city."

For the next few hours, they worked side by side, pooling their knowledge and resources. Enzo pulled up maps and financial records, while Matteo added intel from his street-level contacts. Slowly but surely, a picture began to emerge.

"There," Enzo said, pointing to a cluster of markers on the map. "That has to be their next target. It's the only part of our operation they haven't hit yet, and it's vulnerable."

Matteo leaned in, studying the area Enzo indicated. "The docks," he murmured. "You're right. It's the perfect target. High value, relatively low security."

"So what's the play?" Enzo asked, eager to be part of the action. "Do we warn my father? Set a trap?"

Matteo was quiet for a moment, his brow furrowed in thought. Then he turned to Enzo, a spark of excitement in his eyes. "We do both," he said. "But we keep it small. Just us and a handful of trusted men. The fewer people who know, the less chance of a leak."

Enzo's heart raced at the implication. "Us? You mean... you're letting me come along?"

"Against my better judgment, yes," Matteo said, his tone stern despite the fondness in his eyes. "But you follow my lead, no questions asked. One wrong move and I'll have you back here so fast your head will spin. Clear?"

"Crystal," Enzo agreed quickly, trying to contain his excitement. "I won't let you down, I promise."

Matteo's expression softened. He reached out, cupping Enzo's face in his large hands. "I know you won't, baby," he murmured. "You've already proven how capable you are. Just... be careful, okay? I can't lose you."

The raw emotion in Matteo's voice made Enzo's breath catch. He leaned in, pressing his forehead to Matteo's. "You won't lose me," he promised. "We're in this together, remember?"

Matteo nodded, then pulled Enzo into a deep, passionate kiss. When they finally broke apart, both were breathing heavily.

"We should get some rest," Matteo said, his voice rough with desire. "Tomorrow's going to be a long day."

Enzo pouted, pressing closer to Matteo's solid warmth. "But Daddy," he whined playfully, "I thought you were going to give me what I was asking for earlier. If I was very good."

A low growl rumbled in Matteo's chest. "Brat," he muttered, but there was no heat in the word. "You're going to be the death of me, you know that?"

Before Enzo could retort, Matteo's hand shot out, gripping the back of Enzo's neck firmly. "You want to play, brat?" he growled, his voice low and dangerous. "Fine. Let's play."

In one swift motion, Matteo spun Enzo around and bent him over the kitchen counter. Enzo gasped, the cool marble a shock against his heated skin. He felt Matteo press against him from behind, the older man's arousal evident through their clothes.

"Daddy," Enzo whined, wiggling his hips provocatively. "Please..."

Matteo's hand came down hard on Enzo's ass, the sharp crack echoing in the kitchen. "Ah ah," he chided. "Greedy boys don't get what they want. They get what they need."

Enzo bit back a moan, his cock hardening at Matteo's words. This was new territory for them—rougher, more intense than before. It sent a thrill of excitement and nervousness through him.

"What do you think you need, baby boy?" Matteo purred, his breath hot against Enzo's ear. "A spanking for your bratty behavior? Or maybe I should edge you all night, teach you some patience?"

Enzo whimpered, torn between pushing back for more and melting into submission. "Whatever you want, Daddy," he breathed. "I'm yours."

Matteo hummed approvingly. "Good answer. But I think you can do better." His hand slid around to Enzo's front, palming his erection through his jeans. "Beg for it, baby. Tell Daddy exactly what you want him to do to you."

The command sent heat flooding through Enzo's body. He'd never been one for begging before, had always been too proud. But with Matteo, he found himself wanting to submit, to please.

"Please, Daddy," Enzo gasped, pushing into Matteo's touch. "Want you to use me, make me yours. Spank me, fuck me, anything. Just... please."

Matteo growled, the sound sending shivers down Enzo's spine. "That's my good boy," he praised. "So pretty when you beg. Gonna wreck you, baby. Make you forget your own name."

With that, Matteo yanked Enzo's pants down, leaving him exposed and vulnerable. The first spank came without warning, harder than before. Enzo cried out, a mixture of pain and pleasure flooding his system.

"Count," Matteo ordered. "And thank me for each one."

What followed was a haze of stinging pain and burning pleasure. Enzo lost count somewhere around fifteen, reduced to incoherent whimpers and pleas. His ass felt like it was on fire, but his cock was harder than it had ever been.

When Matteo finally stopped, Enzo was a trembling mess. He felt Matteo's hands, gentle now, soothing over his heated skin.

"You did so well, baby," Matteo murmured. "So perfect for Daddy. Do you think you've earned my cock now?"

"Yes," Enzo gasped. "Please, Daddy. Need you inside me."

Matteo chuckled darkly. "Such a needy little slut. But you've been so good, how can I say no?"

The sound of a zipper being lowered made Enzo's breath hitch. He felt the blunt head of Matteo's cock pressing against his entrance, slick with lube. When had Matteo even gotten that?

"Ready, baby boy?" Matteo asked, his voice strained with restrained desire.

"Yes," Enzo breathed. "Please, Daddy. Make me yours."

With one smooth thrust, Matteo buried himself to the hilt. Enzo cried out, the stretch and burn exquisite. It was too much and not enough all at once.

"Fuck," Matteo groaned. "So tight, so perfect for me."

He set a punishing pace, each thrust driving Enzo further up the counter. The mix of pleasure from Matteo's cock and the lingering sting of the spanking had Enzo seeing stars.

"Daddy," he babbled. "So good, feels so good. Gonna come, please..."

Matteo's hand wrapped around Enzo's throat, not squeezing but a clear show of dominance. "Not yet," he growled. "You come when I say you can. Understand?"

Enzo nodded frantically, fighting against the rising tide of his orgasm. He'd never been so thoroughly dominated, so completely owned. It was terrifying and exhilarating in equal measure.

Matteo's thrusts became erratic, his breathing harsh. "Now, baby," he commanded. "Come for Daddy. Show me how good I make you feel."

The permission was all Enzo needed. He came with a hoarse cry, his body clenching around Matteo's cock. The intensity of it left him breathless, trembling in Matteo's arms.

Matteo followed soon after, grinding deep as he filled Enzo with pulse after pulse of heat. For a long moment, they stayed like that, both panting and shaking.

Finally, Matteo eased out, turning Enzo to face him. His expression was soft now, full of tenderness. "You okay, baby?" he asked, genuine concern in his voice.

Enzo nodded, feeling dazed but utterly content. "More than okay," he murmured. "That was... intense."

Matteo smiled, pressing a gentle kiss to Enzo's forehead. "Too much?"

"No," Enzo said quickly. "It was perfect. You're perfect."

Matteo's eyes darkened with emotion. He gathered Enzo close, holding him tight. "You're mine," he growled softly. "My beautiful, bratty boy. And I'm going to spend every day showing you just how much you mean to me."

As they made their way to the bedroom, Enzo's body pleasantly sore and his heart full, he couldn't help but feel like he'd finally found where he belonged. In Matteo's arms, he was home.