Page 36 of Beneath the Shadows

Antonio glances at his father. “I’ll see you downstairs,” he says before walking over to me, his expression a mix of curiosity and concern. “What’s up?”

“I’ve been thinking,” I say, swirling my whiskey and taking a sip. “With all the changes happening, I’m concerned rival organizations might see this as an opportunity.” I set the glass down and lean in. “There’s something important I need you to do. Something personal,” I add, my tone more deliberate.

“Whatever you need,” Antonio says, his loyalty evident in his eyes.

I nod, a slow smile creeping across my face. “I’ve been thinking,” I say, my voice slick with false sincerity. “I’m giving you a promotion. From now on, you’ll be in charge of Alessia’s security.” I pause for effect, letting my eyes linger on him. “She means a great deal to me, and with all the shifting pieces right now… well, I need to make sure she’s safe. You know, from anyone who might get the wrong ideas.” My voice drips with an undercurrent of manipulation as I watch for his reaction.

Antonio’s eyes widen for just a moment before he schools his expression. “You want me to guard Alessia?” His voice carries a hint of disbelief as if he can’t quite believe I’m letting him work that closely with her. “Is there a specific threat you’re worried about?”

I shake my head, feigning concern as I play the part. “It’s not about any one threat. It’s about being proactive. Alessia’s my wife, and as the new Capo, I can’t afford to take any chances,” I say, keeping my tone measured, watching him closely for any signs of hesitation.

Antonio’s shoulders relax as he takes a seat beside me. “I understand, Vigo. I’ll make sure she’s safe. But if there’s something else going on, tell me, and I’ll handle it.”

I glance away as if weighing my thoughts, then meet his eyes again. “It’s just precautionary. I don’t want anyo

thinking they can hurt Alessia to get to me.”

“You don’t need to worry. I’ll ensure she’s safe.”

“We’re in this together,” I say firmly, my gaze locking onto his. “Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”

Antonio’s expression remains solid. “You have nothing to worry about. I’ll always have your back.”

“Thank you, Anton.”

As Antonio heads off, I finish my whiskey, a sense of control settling over me. With Antonio focused on Alessia, I can keep him close and ensure his loyalty remains unwavering. I’ll do whatever’s necessary to solidify my power.

* * *

A hush falls over the room as the ceremony begins. The gas-powered candle flames dance, casting dark shadows over the alter where a large intricately carved wooden table bearing the symbols of our family's power sits. On it is an ancient dagger, a ledger bound in worn leather, a silver chalice filled with red wine, and a throne draped in crimson fabric—an unmistakable symbol of my new authority.

Marco stands on the altar beside me. My father’s trusted underboss, who’s supposed to be my anchor, but instead, his proximity fuels my paranoia. Around us, the highest-ranking members of our family form a semi-circle.

Enzo steps forward. His voice carries the weight of tradition as he addresses the room, each word dripping with authority and history.

"Tonight, we gather to honor the memory of our fallen Capo, Giovanni Comiso, and to anoint his successor," Enzo intones, his gaze sweeping over the assembly. "This ceremony, steeped in the traditions of our ancestors, marks the continuity of our family's strength and unity."

Enzo’s eyes fall on me. "Valentino, as you stand before us, ready to take your place as Capo, know that this ceremony binds you to a new life—one dedicated toLa Famigliaabove all else." He lifts the ancient dagger, the blade gleaming in the candlelight. "This dagger symbolizes the power and responsibility bestowed upon you as our new leader.”

I move to stand by the table, my heart pounding with a mix of excitement and a sliver of unease. Enzo holds the dagger before him.

With a swift motion, Enzo pricks my finger with the sharp blade until he draws blood. He holds up a small piece of paper bearing the image of a saint. "This blood symbolizes your birth intoLa Famiglia. As your blood stains the saint, so does your soul become one with us."

Enzo presses my bleeding finger to the paper. Crimson seeps into the image. "If you ever betray this family, may your flesh burn like this saint."

The paper is set alight, and Enzo holds it up for all to see the symbol of the vow being taken. The room falls into a deep silence, the crackle of burning paper the only sound.

"As this saint burns, so will your soul if you disobey or betray us," Enzo declares. "You enter alive, but you will only leave dead."

When the flames die out, he turns back to me. "Do you, Valentino, swear to uphold the honor, strength, and loyalty of this family above all else, even at the cost of your life?"

"I do," I reply.

Enzo lowers the dagger and continues, “Drink from the chalice, a symbol of your commitment to our family and its traditions."

I raise the chalice to my lips, the wine's bitterness lingering on my tongue. As I lower it, I glance at Marco, searching for any sign of betrayal. He remains expressionless, but the seed of doubt lingers.

Enzo turns to Marco. "As underboss, you will stand by Valentino's side, guiding him and ensuring the family's continued strength."

---