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I also make sure to meet with anyone and everyone to give final approval for them to finalize entering into the fold. All of them seem to be willing players, team players at that, and I can see why Dominic approved of them.
I delegate specific roles and responsibilities to each ally, aligning their strengths with the needs of the emerging mafia. This not only optimizes their contributions but also solidifies their commitment to the shared cause.
To assess loyalty under pressure, I engineer controlled scenarios that simulate challenges and threats. How each ally responds to these tests becomes a litmus test for their commitment and reliability.
I establish a reward system that acknowledges and reinforces loyalty. Recognition, strategic privileges, and a sense of belonging become incentives that bind my allies to the cause.
Through carefully orchestrated operations, I showcase the capabilities of the emerging mafia. Controlled displays of influence and prowess send ripples through the underworld, establishing a reputation that demands attention and, more importantly, allegiance.
By now, two weeks have passed since my date with Dylan. He has been reaching out to me throughout this time, and I keep telling him I’m busy. The intricacies of my double life as a burgeoning mafia leader and a seemingly legitimate businesswoman have become more pronounced, and I can’t afford a personal relationship right now. It’s almost too much as it is with Alex, Xavier, and Jesse.
Mostly, Dylan’s been texting, so when he calls me, I opt to answer.
“Dylan, how are you?”
“Not nearly as ecstatic as you must be.”
I’m confused and wait for him to clarify.
“Congratulations on the groundbreaking of your casino,” he says warmly. “It's a remarkable achievement. No wonder you’ve been too busy for me."
I laugh. "Thank you, Dylan. I appreciate your kind words. It's been a hectic time with all the preparations."
The conversation feels like a verbal tightrope walk. The casino, a symbol of my legitimate endeavors, stands in stark contrast to the clandestine activities unfolding in the shadows.
"I'd love to celebrate with you,” he says. “How about dinner? My treat."
"Ah. Dylan, I'm swamped with arrangements and meetings. Maybe another time?"
The excuse, a well-practiced refrain, conceals the underlying truth—that the world of organized crime demands my attention in ways Dylan can't fathom. The intricacies of my relationships with Alex, Xavier, and Jesse, combined with the calculated maneuvers within the mafia, create a web of obligations that threaten to entangle even the most well-intentioned connections.
“Are you sure?” he presses. “I bet you didn’t pop champagne or anything to celebrate. I understand being a businesswoman, but taking the time to pat yourself on the back—or letting someone else do that—it’s what you deserve.”
I really did enjoy my time with him, and I find myself saying, “I really can’t tonight, but I can squeeze in dinner tomorrow.”
“It just so happens that tomorrow night works for me too,” he says. “How does Elysian Delights sound?”
It’s one of the most upscale places in the city.
“You really know how to celebrate,” I say.
“Just you wait.”
The next night, as the cityscape glimmers under the soft glow of streetlights, I find myself approaching Elysian Delights. Dylan greets me at the door, which he holds open for me. The ambiance exudes sophistication, a stark departure fromthe shadowy undercurrents that characterize my other life. The discreet chatter of diners and the clinking of fine china create a facade of normalcy, momentarily eclipsing the clandestine world that exists beyond the polished exterior.
We’re seated immediately, and after Dylan orders us champagne, he smiles at me. "Vanessa, I'm thrilled you could make it. You look stunning."
"Thank you, Dylan. The restaurant is exquisite."
We pick up our menus. The waiter hovers attentively.
"I've heard great things about the chef here. I hope you find something you'll enjoy."
"I'm sure it'll be delightful. I appreciate you choosing such a fantastic place."
“The lobster bisque is divine here,” he says.
“I’ll have a bowl if you will.”
