Page 83 of Vengeful Vows
We take our seats, greetings are exchanged, and my uncle thanks us for joining him. The words are polite, nothing more. Matteo’s phone call wasn’t an invitation; it was a directive.
“I’d like to express my gratitude to Roberto for his years of guidance and service to la famiglia.”
The words ring in my ears, stunning me. This can’t mean…
“It’s been an honor, Don Raffaele, not one I’m sure I deserved.” He nods to the godfather, then to Matteo, and finally me. “The future is in good hands.”
Everyone looks in my direction, but I am studying my uncle, waiting for clarification.
“Our timeline has accelerated, Nico. Beginning immediately, you are my new consigliere.”
For a moment, I’m humbled into silence.
Matteo clears his throat, bringing me back to reality. “I’m honored. Roberto leaves me big shoes to fill.” Because I’m blood, I’ve never sworn an official allegiance to the don or the family, nor am I expected to. But this moment is heavy with expectation, and the burden is heavy on my shoulders.
I need to say something, and it must be meaningful.
In acknowledgment of my uncle’s trust, I bow my head. “I will give my life for yours, Don Raffaele.” Then I look at Matteo and tell him the same thing.
Finally I glance at Roberto. “My deepest, abiding gratitude for sharing your knowledge and your wisdom through the years. I appreciate your patience and hope I can be even half as successful as you.”
“You’re a quick study, Nico.” He coughs into a handkerchief. “Serve well.”
He stands.
In deference to him, I rise, as do Matteo and the don.
Leaning heavily on his cane, Roberto walks to the door, then pauses, a bittersweet expression in his eyes.
I wonder if he’ll speak, but then he shakes his head, perhaps thinking better of it. Then he’s gone, and the door clicks closed behind him, signaling the figurative changing of the guard.
I’ve never known a world in which Roberto wasn’t my uncle’s most trusted adviser.
For a few moments, we’re all silent. Then the don presses his hands together. “You’ll be replacing Roberto on our trip to Las Vegas.”
My first official act?
“Matteo will fill you in on the logistics.”
For the next two hours, we discuss strategies and potential sit-downs with the heads of each of the three families individually while in Las Vegas.
When we reach the end of the meeting, I realize that serving my family will be a bigger commitment than I originally anticipated.
“I expect you to be clearheaded, Nico,” the don finishes.
“Yes, of course.”
“Roberto had an office here. You are welcome to it.”
I nod.
We agree I will continue to operate my own business, but it’s clearly time to promote someone to be the new president in charge of daily operations.
That will be handled within the month.
Satisfied, Don Raffaele stands.
He comes around the desk, and we embrace with cordial claps on the back.