Victoria trembled with fear. She hugged her small children tightly when she received a text message:

"The path is clear. You can go."

It was Raymond.

She looked up nervously and gently pushed the children away. "Children, I have to talk to Jordano," she said, trying to sound firm as she disentangled herself from their arms.

Melany grabbed her arm, clinging to her. "Mommy, we're very scared. Don't go, please."

"Honey, Jordano is nearby. It'll only be a second, my love," Victoria replied, caressing her face. The girl nodded with teary eyes, and Victoria cautiously approached.

Jordano hadn't killed her yet only because Salvatore hadn't officially ordered him to. But...