Page 55 of Sacred Hearts

“I’ve reviewed the evidence thoroughly,” I respond. “It’s conclusive. I’m instructing Justice Minister Esposito to proceed with formal investigations and prosecutions immediately.”

Carlos’s smile tightens. “With all due respect, Matteo, the political fallout will be enormous. Our coalition barely survived the last confidence vote. If we move against Russo and Bianchi now, we risk collapse.”

“And if we don’t,” Gabriella counters, “we betray everything this government stands for. Our anti-corruption platform isn’t just policy—it’s our core promise to the Italian people who elected all of us in this room.”

“I’m not suggesting we ignore corruption,” Carlos says smoothly. “Only that we approach it strategically. Perhaps focus first on lower-profile targets, build public support, then move on the ministers.”

I study Carlos carefully. His suggestion makes political sense, but something in his tone feels off. Is he genuinely concerned about our coalition’s stability, or is he trying to protect someone?

“We prosecute based on evidence, not political convenience,” I say firmly. “Justice Minister, you have my full authorization to proceed without delay or restriction.”

Gabriella nods, a hint of satisfaction in her eyes. “We’ll begin with search warrants today. Financial records, communications, the works.”

“The Vatican connection complicates matters,” Foreign Minister Rizzo points out. “We’re talking about sovereign territory.”

“We can’t prosecute Vatican officials,” I acknowledge, “but we can and will prosecute Italian citizens regardless of their connections. The Pope himself has indicated support for transparency.”

Carlos raises an eyebrow. “You’ve discussed this with the Pope?”

“We’ve had several meetings regarding matters of mutual concern,” I reply, keeping my tone neutral despite the flutter in my chest at the mention of Marco. “His Holiness is as committed to rooting out corruption as we are.”

“How convenient,” Carlos murmurs, just loud enough for me to hear.

I ignore the comment and continue outlining our approach. For the next hour, we discuss legal strategies, public communications, and security measures. Throughout, I notice Carlos growing increasingly tense, though he masks it well behind his political smile.

As the meeting concludes, Gabriella remains behind while others file out. Carlos lingers at the door, watching us with thinly veiled suspicion before finally departing.

“He’s not happy,” Gabriella observes once we’re alone.

“No, he’s not.”

“Do you trust him?”

I consider the question carefully. “I trust that he acts in his own interest. Whether that aligns with ours remains to be seen.”

Gabriella nods. “I’ll watch my back, then. And yours.”

“The evidence against Russo and Bianchi—it’s solid?”

“Ironclad,” she confirms. “The financial trails are clear, and we have witness testimony from three former associates. They’re going down, Matteo. But this won’t be the end of it.”

“I know.” I run a hand through my hair. “Once we pull this thread, there’s no telling how much of the government unravels.”

“Are you prepared for that? We could lose everything we’ve built.”

I think of Marco, of his courage in confronting centuries of entrenched power. “Some things are worth the risk, Gabriella. If we compromise now, what was the point of any of it?”

She studies me for a moment, then smiles slightly. “Something’s different about you today. You seem… I don’t know. Centred.”

“Just focused on what matters,” I reply.

As she leaves, I wonder how many people will notice this change in me before the day is done. Is it so obvious that one night with Marco has transformed me somehow?

14

Nothing Personal

Carlos

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