The shock hit him square in the chest, genuine and unscripted.

Yet, within the blink of an eye, the Don’s impenetrable mask slammed right back into place. He kept his composure effortlessly in front of his men.

"Thank you all," Giovanni said, his deep, commanding voice cutting through the hall. "Enjoy your night."

He kept it brief, but the moment he finished, the entire club erupted into life. The bass kicked on, top-shelf liquor began pouring, platters of gourmet food circulated, and strippers glided out onto the main floor as the syndicate began to eat and make merry.

Before Giovanni could react, Rosalia grabbed him firmly by the hand and...