ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTEEN.

ALESSANDRO, AKA DON VALENTINO

AN HOUR EARLIER.

Closing my office door behind Mrs DeLuca, I walk straight over to the trolley of liquor and I pour myself a decent size glass of whiskey.

I take a sip, marvelling at the harsh, burning sensation it leaves behind as it trails down my throat.

Turning around, I face Mrs DeLuca, looking at her through eyes full of disgust.

I lower myself into my office chair with my glass nestled in my hands.

She is silent, her eyes darting around the office like it's her very first time in here.

It's not.

I've been informed multiple times by my men that they have seen her exiting my office without my knowledge of her presence.

“Mi dispiace that I spoke out of term at the dinner table.” She begins. “But you know I am only looking out for you and your empire. Your mamma was like a sorella to me. She only ever wanted the best for you and your fratello, and she made me promise to always be there whenever you needed me.” She explains as she tucks h