Victor's eye twitched. He was in professional mode right now and this wasn't how he'd let any small boss talk to him, not without immediate and decisive repercussion. Don Falcone wouldn't blame him if he executed him on the spot.

However, this was Roman. He didn't want him dead and he knew him. Still ruled by base emotions more than his brain, he doubted he'd ever get over that. It was a miracle he'd even survived this long. Victor would have killed him if it had been anyone but him, but here he was. Professional wouldn't do.

He moved his hand to run his fingers through Roman's hair, a gentle touch, and he lowered his voice. "Breathe, Roman."

A part of him had to come through eventually. One that recognised what a mistake he'd made.