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I recognized their actions as a tactic to lighten the mood, and while it worked, it did leave me knowing that I had a lot of thinking to do.

A knock sounded on my door, and my secretary entered.

I shared a look with Kramaric and Vito.

That was the end of the discussion.

********

Sitting across from my stepmother, Katarina, in the elegant drawing room, I knew her counsel was invaluable.

I began recounting the details of the earlier discussion with Kramaric and Vito, seeking her wise guidance and insight.

"Madre," I began, ”I met up with Kramaric and Vito today. We discussed the change in the development with Mr. Stefan and his withdrawal from the payment platform deal. It has created a significant setback for our secret project. I, Vito, and Kramaric spoke about different measures we could take, but in the end, we decided it would be better to come to and ask for your advice on how to navigate this challenging situation."

My stepmother leaned forward, her gaze steady and attentive.

"Tell me everything, Dante."

I proceeded to share the details, explaining the alternatives explored and the potential obstacles we faced.

As I finished, I could see the wheels turning in Katarina's mind, her experience and shrewdness evident.

"Dante," she began, her tone measured, "this setback requires us to think outside the box. While Mr. Stefan's platform was a prime opportunity, we cannot be solely reliant on it. We must explore other avenues and consider forging new partnerships or even developing our solution."

I nodded, absorbing her words.

"You're right,madre. We cannot allow ourselves to be deterred by this setback. We need to be resourceful and find an alternative path forward."

Her eyes gleamed with determination.

"Dante, remember that setbacks often reveal opportunities in disguise. As a family, we have overcome countless challenges before. Trust in our strength. We will find a way to turn this setback into a stepping stone for success."

Her words struck a chord within me, strengthening my resolve.

With Katarina's guidance and unwavering support, I knew we would chart a new course, seizing the opportunity hidden within the setback.

As we continued our discussion, her advice served as a beacon of hope, illuminating a path forward in the face of adversity.

At the end of our discussion, she stopped me when I stood up, ready to leave.

“Madre?”

“Know that you are not alone in this. We are all here to help you.”

Her eyes were gentle now as she spoke to me.

At this moment, she wasn’t speaking to me as if she was my consigliere and I was her Don.

No.

She spoke to me as if she were my mother and I was her son.

Taking large strides, I moved over to my stepmother and embraced her tightly.

I felt choked with emotions.

What I couldn’t say, I poured into my action instead. Her smaller arms returned my embrace, and I allowed myself to stand there and soak up her warm and motherly affection.

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