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I walk into the center of the garden. My guards make themselves unseen, I know they’re still there, but they don’t disturb me. Mercenaries. Killers by trade who were looking for an easy, well-paying job. It was easy to get them into the family, to convince them to pledge their loyalty to first my father and then to me.
When you have the money, you have what people all dream of having. Money. It’s such a simple thing to come by if you just disregard the rules.
Unlike love.
I did love her. I loved her with my whole heart, and looking at the tall rose bushes that line the inside of the hedges just makes it even clearer that emotion is a weakness I can’t afford. I can’t lose my head with her, and I can’t let her see she affects me. Otherwise, she wins, and she can never win after what she did to me.
The sun rises, and the garden comes to life in the rays of light. The fresh smell of damp earth and blossoming flowers fills the air. Once upon a time, I would have spread a blanket out, laid in the middle, and gotten lost in my thoughts about love, life, and death while I enjoyed the stillness the garden offered.
I walk away from it now. It’s now a living monument to the life I left behind. A symbolic reminder that no woman will ever take advantage of Miguel Rossi ever again.
I wave Jeffrey away. “I’ll take breakfast in my office.”
He’s surprised. I don’t usually take my meals in the office. Growing up, my father impressed upon us the importance of the dining room table. Important decisions are made while eating. The best decisions and memories are made while you fill your belly. The dining room table symbolizes the unity of a family, the core where all members meet on equal grounds to share their lives.
Well, as long as it isn’t about family business.
The men don’t discuss family business with the women. It’s not how things are done. Of course, there are rumors about the Sorvino family, especially Alessandro’s wife, who runs her own family.
Many families questioned the situation at first, but I’ve heard Katya has proved her worth in rather violent and merciless ways. I wouldn’t expect much less from a Russian family leader.
I sit at my desk and turn on the screen for my computer. I check my emails first as there are documents I need to sign and approve and certain senators I need to, well, assist.
I’ve also been sent financial reports that I’ll need to go over before I see our accountant next week.
Jeffrey comes in with a tray and sets it down on the table to my right. “Your breakfast, sir.”
“Thank you,” I say quietly, drafting an email to the senator who got caught with his mistress. It is always good to do things for senators because they do things for you. I could use some favors.
A notification pops up, and I read the sender as Sorvino.
I quickly finish my email to the senator, ensuring that it looks perfectly ‘clean’ before I open the new email and read.
Let’s meet.
Tonight at nine, at The Italian on Fifth Avenue.
Two guards only.
Don Sorvino
I take my time to respond. I need to be careful. I know they own The Italian on Fifth Avenue, so they will have the home advantage. No, I don’t think that will suit me at all. I hit reply.
Tonight at Nine. West Central Park near the entrance.
Two Guards only.
Agree to venue change or no meeting.
Don Rossi
I send it and wait, refreshing my emails constantly until a reply finally hits my inbox.
Agreed.
Don Sorvino.
I smirk to myself and go to eat my breakfast. It’s fruit today with some toast and preserves. I sip the coffee that has been brought with it.
