Silvio did not reach for it.

“I only sign what the boss tells me to sign,” Silvio said.

“He just told you,” Leo said, gesturing to Dominic.

“He whispered it,” Silvio said. “I want to hear him say it clearly.”

I stepped back toward the bookshelf, trying to put some distance between myself and Leo’s guard.

My hand brushed against my wet coat, which was draped over a chair.

The pockets were empty, but my mind was racing.

I had to get Silvio to look inside that yellow envelope.

“He can’t speak clearly because he’s been drugged,” I said, louder this time.

Leo whirled around, his eyes wild.

“She’s lying,” Leo said. “She’s trying to stall.”

“Am I?” I asked, looking at Silvio. “Ask him what Dr. Marcone gave him before he left.”

Silvio turned his gaze to the leather bag on the floor.

“Where is Marcone, anyway?” Silvio asked.

“He went to get more supplies,” Leo said quickly.

“He left his bag,” Gianni pointed out, gesturing to the floor.

“He was in a hurry,” Leo said.

The tension in the room was like a cord stretched to its limit.