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Giuseppe cleared his throat, and continued his brother’s monologue, "Now that the Rosedale families have been liberated from protective custody, it's time we unravel the truth behind the years of murder, abduction, intimidation, and extortion plaguing the Rosedale family and now my only child."
"What precisely do you propose?" I inquired cautiously as the others either nodded or signaled their agreement with a thumbs up.
A smile graced Antonio's lips, his eyes gleaming with intrigue. "My plan entails a measure of risk on your part. However, I suspect you always knew it would come to that, didn't you?"
Guy rose to his feet and paced the floor. "Mr. Russo, one doesn't ascend to your stature without developing survival instincts. I guarantee my friends and me," Guy gestured to encompass our group, "have long sensed something was amiss with the case. We are ready to defend ourselves but were at a loss of how to do it!"
"Indeed, that's the truth," Daniel declared, rising and leaning across the desk toward the mob boss.
"Let's cut to the chase, then. What, sir, do you propose?" Chase inquired as a smattering of chuckles broke out.
"Did I miss something?" Antonio growled, irritated.
Giuseppe reclined in his chair. "Perhaps you gentlemen should introduce yourselves before my brother outlines the plan we've devised for you."
Following the introductions, Antonio chuckled, "So, yes, allow me to cut to the chase, Chase.”
As Antonio continued with the plan, his eyes suddenly caught sight of something outside the window. The lush green of Guy's vineyard spread out before him, a picturesque scene that demanded his attention. He stopped mid-sentence, admiration overtaking his previously stern expression.
"That's a beautiful vineyard out there," he said, pointing out the window. "Is it yours, Guy?"
Guy, noticing the change in Antonio's demeanor, smiled and nodded. "Yes, it is. I took it over a few years ago. It's been quite a project, but it's starting to bear fruit, quite literally." He quickly walked over to the wine cooler beside his desk, opened it, and pulled out a bottle of wine. "This is one of the first vintages from the vineyard. Would you like to try some?"
Antonio nodded, intrigued. Guy uncorked the bottle and poured a glass for Antonio, who accepted it with a smile. He took a sip, savoring the flavors before continuing his previous train of thought.
"Now, where was I? Ah, yes. Rosedale needs to fire the private security detail they've been using. They're nothing but a bunch of schmucks." Antonio took another sip of the wine, clearly enjoying it as he explained his thoughts on the matter. "Their incompetence is causing more problems than it's solving, and I have a better solution in mind…."
The room fell silent as everyone listened intently to Antonio's proposal. Guy, for his part, beamed with pride as he watched the mob boss enjoy the fruits of his vineyard.
Antonio swirled the wine in his glass, seemingly deep in thought. "I have a hand-picked crew, guys.” His eyes seemed lost in contemplation. "I have personally assembled a team of experts, gentlemen, who typically work for the high-stakes clientele at Del Mar during racing season. They are, undoubtedly, among the finest in the field. With the racing season at a standstill, they are available to assist Rosedale," he explained, his tone steady and self-assured.
Daniel's eyebrow arched, his curiosity piqued by Antonio's proposition. "These men, are they trustworthy with children? After all, we're family men."
A sly smile played across Antonio's lips, his gaze meeting Daniel's. "Indeed. To my knowledge, the majority have families of their own. I assure you they’re discreet and trustworthy professionals."
I edged nearer to Angelo, my legal counsel, to voice a question gnawing at the recesses of my mind. "Could this arrangement create complications with the state, given I'm expecting a visit from the Department of Human Services to check on Ava?"
"As long as Antonio Russo is involved," Angelo quipped, a smirk tugging at his lips. "No!"
Ryder interjected, "We are profoundly indebted to you, sir. How could we possibly repay you?"
Amy's father rose to his feet, his brow furrowing. "Please, refrain from insulting my brother! He is extending a helping hand because he values family above all else. We want you, your wives, and your children to put this legal debacle behind you and resume normal lives."
"Oh, no!" Ryder stammered. "I apologize. I never intended to be disrespectful. Please understand."
Antonio nodded, swallowing another taste of his wine. "I take no offense. However, I do acknowledge my brother's concern."
We exchanged apprehensive glances before I finally suggested, "Please introduce us to your crew. We are immensely grateful for your aid. When can we expect their arrival?"
"They should be here soon" Antonio stood, emptying the final droplet of wine. "Now, Guy, would you be so kind as to show me around your estate? I'd like to survey your vineyard. We're in search of a fresh wine supplier for my casino establishments."
We heard a distant commotion as we returned to the main house after we toured the vineyard. The sound grew louder and more distinct. Then, turning the corner, we were met with a heartwarming scene: the wives and children had arrived. Laughter and squeals of delight filled the air, and the atmosphere was charged with joy and relief. There were embraces, tears streaming down our faces as some held each other tightly, the weight of our past struggles seemingly melting away in the warmth of our reunion.
I located Amy as she ran toward me, holding little Ava. "Can we really go home?" Amy asked breathlessly.
"Yes, thanks to your father... and your uncle."
"Now, if you wait right here, I have a question to ask your father."
