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I thank him sincerely. Father often spoke of my mother’s long friendship with Felix's mother. It heartens me to know we still have allies, even with Father gone.
As I greet more mourners, I'm struck by the sheer number of touched by Father’s life. His legacy stretches far and wide, from the streets of Chicago to as far as Sicily. Though we came from humble beginnings, the Accardo name now commands respect across continents.
I stand taller, filled with quiet resolve. I will honor my father's memory and continue his work. Though the burden is heavy, I will bear it.
As we all walk toward the small family church, I notice that cascading mahogany hair. How could it be?
Tatiana's presence catches me off guard. I hadn't expected her to come, though a part of me is ecstatic that she's here. She stands apart from the crowd, an oasis of calm amidst the churning sea of mourners. Our eyes meet, and an understanding passes between us. She knows this isn't easy for me.
I make my way over to her as the crowd shifts and surges around us.
"You’re here," I announce in disbelief. “What about New York?”
She gives me a sad smile. "What about New York?”
Her voice is gentle and comforting. She reaches out and squeezes my hand, a simple gesture that grounds me. I'm struck by how well she seems to know me and understand what I need at this moment.
"Thank you for being here," I tell her earnestly. "It...helps more than you know."
She nods, her green eyes filled with warmth and compassion. "I'll stay as long as you need me."
“How did you hear?”
“Your driver told me when he came to pick me up at the hotel. He looked truly shaken. Your father meant a lot to his men, I could tell. And from the brief time we met, I knew I wanted to pay my respects.”
“You did?”
“I wish I had more time to get to know him,” she whispers, reaching out and squeezing my hand. “Through you, perhaps, I still can. He was formidable.”
I'm about to respond when I see Felix Carlisi’s wife approaching. Rosalie Battaglia’s expression is somber.
"Philippe," she says respectfully as she comes to stand before me. "My deepest condolences. Your father was a great leader, and we all feel the void of his loss."
I nod, touched by her sincerity. "Thank you, Rosalie. I appreciate you being here."
Her gaze shifts to Tatiana briefly before meeting my eyes. "You have many challenges ahead. But know that you have our full support and loyalty."
Though her words are simple, I understand the weight behind them. She is voicing the allegiance of the entire family, reminding me that I am not alone in this endeavor. Her husband affirmed the same sentiment.
I glance at Tatiana by my side. This fascinating woman has unexpectedly intertwined her fate with mine. She gives me a subtle smile of encouragement, and in her eyes, I see the same steadfast loyalty Rosalie has just professed.
I turn back to Rosalie and nod firmly, a silent promise that I will honor my father's legacy and lead us into the future. She seems to read my determination. With a brief clasp of my shoulder, she takes her leave.
I feel Tatiana's fingers lace through mine, grounding me. We share a look filled with unspoken emotion. It is in this moment that I realize I have everything I need - unwavering support, steadfast loyalty, and her.
Tatiana squeezes my hand gently before letting go. "I should give you some time alone with your father," she says softly.
I nod, the lump in my throat preventing any words. She reaches up and caresses my cheek in a feather-light touch. No more needs to be said. Her eyes convey it all - sorrow, comfort, strength.
As she turned to walk away, the realization hit me like a blow. I cannot do this without her. She has become my rock, my light in this sudden darkness.
"Tatiana," I call out, my voice rough.
She stops and looks back, eyebrows raised questioningly.
"Thank you," I say simply, hoping she understands the depth of those two words.
The corners of her lips turn up slightly. With a graceful nod, she continues on her way, melting into the crowd of mourners.
