Page 8 of Reign of Fate

“What does Bruto say about this?” I ask. Bruto is Guido’s father. From the time I’ve known Bruto, he’s been a solid soldier and has a good head on his shoulders. Guido was the first of three children. His sister, Danilla, is married with a couple of kids. Her husband works as an assistant manager in one of the casinos. He’s the type to lie low and is quite happy with his position. Guido’s younger brother wanted to go to college. He’s currently in his third year, studying to be an accountant. Once he’s done, we’ll find a place for him inUltimo Morte.

“I haven’t met with him yet. Although, he’s asked how long Elisa is expected to stay in her home. Bruto says it should be sold and the money returned to his family,” Raffaele says snidely.

“What the fuck!” I growl, stepping farther into the room. “It’s never been done. All the widows have been able to stay in their homes, and iftheydecided to sell, the proceeds of the sale went to them.”

He pushes his chair back and gets to his feet. “I’m well aware.”

“What do you plan to do?”

“I’m going through all the bills and want to have a full account of what’s owed and to whom. The creditors will be paid.Ultimo Mortedoes not shirk its responsibilities. I’m collecting the deed on the house and will uncover in whose name it’s registered. But I feel that there’s more to this than I would like.”

I nod, then tell him, “Dinner’s ready. The women are waiting for us.”

Raffaele comes over to me and puts his hand on my shoulder. “I’m going to speak with her tonight. Her father is pushing to have her home and wants to have her taken care of. I’ve already explained Guido’s request that Elisa is to have time to grieve.” He sighs. “He’s old, and he says he’s worried about his daughter, which I very much doubt. He implies he wants to make sure she’s settled.”

“I want to be present.”

“If you like, but it may be overwhelming to have us both present.”

“Regardless, I believe it better that she understands this is going to happen.”

“Fine.” He shrugs. “Your choice.”

“By the way, Guido’s office hasn’t been touched since his death. Elisa mentioned on our way here that someone should go in and take what they need,” I say. “There could be some indication as to why Guido owed so much money.”

“You do it,” he orders. “Put anything you think is important aside and shred everything else. Bruto is behaving oddly, and I want answers.”

“I’ll get on it tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow’s Saturday. Spend the weekend with Adriana. This can wait until Monday,” he says. “We’d better get in there before they send out a search party.”

Raffaele and I join the women in the dining room. Raffaele greets Elisa warmly, and we all take our seats for dinner. Adriana’s constant chatter keeps us all entertained through the meal, but near the end, I can see she’s exhausted, but she’s fighting sleep, as all kids do.

“I’m not tired,” Adriana insists with a yawn.

“Is that right?” I tease, tapping her nose.

“Come on. You’re having a sleepover at our house tonight,” Evangeline tells her. “Tomorrow morning, we’ll make French toast together. It’s your favorite.” Bribing Adriana with food is always the way to go.

Adriana turns to Elisa. “Will you read me my story?”

“As soon as you’re ready for bed, just call my name, and I’ll come find you,” Elisa says with a grin. Reluctantly, Adriana takes Evangeline’s hand, and they leave the room.

Raffaele catches Elisa’s gaze and, in a serious tone, says, “We have to talk, Elisa. It’s time to lay it out for you. I hope you understand that what I’m about to say is for your benefit.”

Elisa hitches a breath and clasps her hands together tightly on the table. She lifts her chin, but the fear in her eyes gives her away. She knows her life is about to change.

FOUR

Final Words

ELISA

Raffaele’s tone is such that I feel my stomach tighten. All the delicious food I ingested is turning to acid. I hold Raffaele’s gaze and refuse to look away. I won’t show weakness because a woman inUltimo Morteis strong, and she rises to any adversity she faces. I’m used to the unexpected happening. Guido’s health challenges were difficult, but I have the sense that what Raffaele is about to tell me is going to rock me to my core.

The silence is deafening. I can’t take it anymore. “Have I done something wrong?” I’m proud of myself: my voice was steady and even.

Raffaele shakes his head and taps his finger on the table. “No. Not at all.”

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