Page 135 of Alessio

“I will handle my people,” Gian said, “because there isn’t much someone can do when you’re not made, and you don’t belong to this organization, Corrado. Being a member of The League saved you retribution for this, and I hope you know that.”

“I didn’t. I still expected something.”

“And you’re ready for it.”

Corrado lifted his shoulders. “I did what I did.”

“Be careful when you come home to visit,” Gian said, waving a hand. “Respectful, and mindful of your words and actions. They will watch to make sure you’re not stepping out of line against them after this. Do you understand me?”

Everything about the mafia came down to semantics.

Theatrics.

“I got it,” he replied.

Gian tipped his chin in Corrado’s direction. “Then, that’s all I have to say. I know Alessio is catching a flight soon, yes?”

“Too soon.”

That’s all he offered.

Corrado tried not to think about it.

“Better spend the time you have with him, then.”

Yeah.

Cara pushed off the stool before Corrado turned to leave, and he waited as his mother joined his side.

“I’ll walk you out.”

“You don’t have to.”

“But I want to.”

Corrado almost smiled. His mother wanted something, and so, she would get it.

Cara grabbed a shawl hanging from a hook in the entry hallway and took her time wrapping her shoulders. She smiled over at her son, a familiar softness coming back into her eyes as she murmured, “I would ask you to stay for lunch, but …”

“Les has to leave, and I’m not in the mood, Ma.”

“I bet. Your father didn’t want to mention it because he didn’t want to upset you more but I’m sorry. I’m sure this’ll work out, Corrado.”

His brow dipped. “Sorry for what?”

“Ginevra—Marcus told us she’s on her way to a private airstrip to catch a flight to New York today. I assumed that would upset you.”

Sure did.

A lot.

He hadn’t known until now. He couldn’t call Marcus to ask anything because he ruined his phone. He could use anybody’s phone to do it, but he didn’t want to.

If Ginevra needed to leave, why should they stop her?

Yeah, it fucking hurt.

Life took from him again.