The room was dark. Only the tip of the cigarette was visible in the darkness, shining like a small star in a night sky filled with clouds. A drag from the cigarette created a small faint light into the room, followed by a thick cloud of smoke, like the chimney of a factory, producing goods at a slow rate.

Jessica plucked the cigarette’s ashes into the ashtray and took another drag, closing her eyes shut, as if the light from the tip blinded her. She was lost in her thoughts, trying to solve everything at once. She saw him looking at her. His eyes. His warm smile. Francesco’s form wouldn’t leave. It was as if he never died. He never left. It was as if he was always there, by her side, supporting, her in her every decision.

The ashtray had already seventeen cigarettes in it and Jessica put out another, moving it in a circular motion inside the ashtray as though she was searching for something underneath the ashes. She turned on the desk lamp, shedding a faint light inside the office, revealing the thick veil of smoke floating into the air. Her father’s old office was now covered in fumes. He would have scolded her for smoking in there, but he was no longer around.

The mess on her desk would surprise anyone, but not Jessica. She had so many things in her head and had to deal with them all at once. The only thing standing out was a letter; a yellowish paper stained with letters from a typewriter. She grabbed the letter and read it.

Dear sister,

I was glad when I learned you came back from Italy. I’m sorry I couldn’t be there to greet you properly but people aren’t allowed to have visitors or take trips into the city.

I’m sorry I couldn’t be there for the birth of my nephew and your wedding. I hope Alberto‘s treating you well. I know it was hard for you to move on, but I hope it’s for the best.

Kiss my nephew for me. I hope you’re back for a good reason. Don’t do anything stupid.

Tears overwhelmed her eyes, forming a small river down her cheeks. A drop of tears found its way to her chin and dropped on the paper. Her hand was trembling as she put it down. She grabbed another cigarette from her package. Another cloud of smoke flew into the air.

Jessica closed her eyes shut and leaned back in her chair. Another tear moved down towards her chin but she wiped it with the back of her hand before it reached her black dress. She was lost once again in her thoughts.

A soft tap on the door pulled her out of her dreams as if she resurfaced from the sea after a long dive under the water. She opened her wet red eyes wide open. “Come in.” She said clearing her throat.

Sofia opened the door. “Are you busy?” she asked with a soft voice still standing at the doorstep. “No mother. Please come in.” Jessica said with a crack in her voice, struggling to hide her emotions. “I took Luca back to his bed. He fell asleep on the couch” she said with a warm smile. The same warm smile she always had while talking about her grandson. “How are you?” Sofia took a seat across Jessica, letting the light wash over her face.

Jessica took a drag from the cigarette. Sofia looked more tired than ever. Her face looked broken, filled with wrinkles as if she grew older overnight. She was still a beautiful woman, with the silver lines in her hair giving her a charming aura. Nevertheless, most of the time she looked more weakened than charming. “I’m fine” Jessica muttered after a long pause and took another drag, trying to seem unconcerned about her troubles.

“Reading Giovanni’s letter again?” Sofia shined a sympathetic smile on Jessica. “It’s the only thing left of him.”

“At least he‘s alive and well.”

“Yes.” was the only thing that came out of Jessica’s mouth. She was not sure how to feel about her family situation. There were times she thought that Francesco and her grandmother were the lucky ones. They were those who managed to be relieved of the family‘s burden and moved on to a better place. Jessica made the sign of the cross and took another drag.

Sofia followed Jessica’s example. “It’s not easy moving on,” she said as her warm smile vanished. The same tired look painted her face. A look that was dark and exhausted.

“It‘s not Sofia. I’m not sure I could if it wasn’t for Luca…or you.”

“You are my life now Jessica. I’ll stand by your side. At least, you have Alberto now.”

Jessica scoffed at the sound of Alberto’s name. “Yeah. Lucky me,” she said with an ironic tone. “I know it wasn’t a marriage based on love…”

“It wasn’t.”

“But he loves you, Jessica.”

“I guess. My only concern is Luca and the family.”

The pressure got heavier in the room as silence sat down to the thick smoke of Jessica’s cigarettes. The two women were sitting still, each one lost in their thoughts, looking into the darkest corners of the room.

“So. Now that we are back. What‘s the plan?”

“I don’t know. I’m lost. My father had the details of all the families in New York. Information, names…” Jessica paused to take another drag as if she was searching for the right words to say. “But things have changed.”

“Changed how?”

“Word in the street is that the Jews control the booze business. Jamaicans are smuggling guns and trafficking and our beloved Chinese control the drug market.”

“Different times indeed. We live on for a few years and New York has turned into a buco di culo.” Sofia said with frustration in her voice. Her expression betrayed that she looked back to the good old days when Luca used to have the entire city under his thumb. Even when Michael came, trying to take over the city from Luca, they were both capable leaders, keeping the streets clean.

“I came back to clean this buco di culo, Sofia. Vacation time is over.” Jessica said with determination in her voice, putting out the cigarette, and reaching for another.

“Jessica…” Sofia said and paused, trying to find the best words to describe her concerns without attacking or insulting her.

“We discussed this. This is a dangerous game.”

“Save it, Sofia. I respect you and your judgment. But there’s nothing to discuss.”

“Think of your son, Jessica. Do you want him to end up like us? Alone?”

“I don’t want him to end up like me. Hating the cops for taking away his father. Hating the Saltinottis for taking away his uncles.” Jessica hissed as her eyes cramped as she lit up another cigarette.

Sofia took a short breath. She knew Jessica had every right in the world to feel that way. She still felt that way. Both of her sons’ deaths were at the hands of organized crime. However, Sofia made her peace with it. Something that Jessica couldn’t do. Sofia crossed her arms on the desk.

“If I can’t change your mind, at least let me help you.” Sofia tried to hide the uneasiness in her voice. Jessica kept staring at her, waiting for her proposition.

“I’ve been in this business longer than you.”

“Sofia, I don’t want another lecture.”

“I’m not going to give you one. I want to help you find peace.”

“So, what do we do?” Jessica asked, almost ignoring Sofia’s concerns.

“We are short in numbers. We need New York‘s Italian families to back us up.”

“Do you have anyone in mind?”

“We can’t count on the Saltinottis.”

Jessica paused and her eyes almost spat fire. Her face took an outraged devilish look. “Don’t mention that name again.” she hissed and took a big drag from her cigarette.

“The Baldinottis are back in the game. We had our differences but they hate the….” Sofia paused trying to avoid saying the name, Saltinotti.

“They hate them as much as we do.”

“Why is that?”

“Davide’s daughter now runs things and the Saltinottis are making her life a living hell.”

“Davide’s daughter?”

“Yes. Sabina. She struck a deal with Stefano and three days later, half of her assets were confiscated by the police.”

“Why am I not surprised?”

“Apart from the Baldinottis, all the old loyal families to us would want to support us.”

Jessica put out the cigarette and pressed her fist against her lips, thinking about the current situation. There were so many loose ends to take care of. Every time she felt under pressure, the image of Francesco and then her father would appear. She couldn‘t stop thinking about how they stayed in control amidst the chaos.

“Have our men from Italy talked with them yet?”

“I think we should do it ourselves.” Sofia disagreed and her tone turned serious. There were moments when the sadness faded and the powerful woman Sofia would take over. This was one of those moments. Jessica could see in her eyes that she already had a plan, at least something to start.

“Seems like we are in the driver‘s seat?”

“Exactly. We can’t let them think we‘re hiding behind our men.”

“I’ll talk to Sabina then. It would be better if you keep your distance from her.”

Sofia nodded pleased with Jessica’s opinion. The assassination of Davide would make her as the mother of the assassin looks very bad. They need Sabina on their side.

“What are we going to do with the gangs?”

“Once we have the families backing us, it‘s only a matter of time.”

“I’m willing to go to war. As your husband and my father did.”

“Jessica. Our men did a war for the wrong reasons. Many innocents died.”

“I don’t care. I don’t care about the police or the other gangs. Our name and our sacrifices will not go in vain.”

“Si ma… don’t stray from our target as your father did.”

“I know Sofia. I know.”

Another moment of silence followed as both women stood there, drawn once again in their thoughts. Sofia kept staring at Jessica. Still determined to back her, but her eyes revealed a slight hint of dread. She didn’t want to see her stepdaughter end up like the other members of her family.

Jessica’s eyes narrowed, and she clenched her fist. Her nails were dipped inside her palms, leaving three discrete marks. The blood in her veins was boiling once again. Every time she thought about the Saltinottis or the police, images of her wedding kept coming back. She was frenzied. She had to take out all that frustration and anger and all those years she didn’t have a single chance. Now, she had.

“Jessica. Keep your head in the game.” Sofia pointed out sensing her impatience. “Your father…”

“I know!” Jessica lashed out at Sofia. “I know my father and your husband and my soon-to-be husband screwed everything up. I know!” she shouted. Sofia turned out to be her friend and the only person she could rely on after Alberto, but there were times Sofia’s rational thinking and her constant lecturing drove her mad. Jessica knew the mistakes of both families, but she didn’t want to sit idle until her mind became shrouded by hate. She needed to use that point of hate like a loaded gun toward the right target. It would be useless after she made amends with her situation. Nothing would drive her.

“I won’t screw this up because I don’t have the luxury to do so!” she kept shouting until she felt a sting in her throat. Jessica started coughing as if her lungs were begging for another drag. The coughing made her pause and made her eyes wet. She took a sip from her glass of whiskey that had been sitting on the desk for hours. The interruption made her relax.

Sofia kept looking on with tenderness in her eyes. She knew how Jessica felt. She had been there, but there was nothing she could say. She could only be there and make sure Jessica didn’t do anything stupid.

The soft screeching on the door interrupted the heated conversation as the door opened. A young boy was standing at the doorstep with brown hair, dressed in silk pajamas, holding a light brown teddy bear in his hand. “Mammina? Are you okay?” the boy asked rubbing his eyes. Those eyes reminded Jessica of Francesco. The boy had his eyes and she couldn’t stop staring at them.

Jessica gasped and almost jumped out of her seat. “Si Luca. Si” she said with a warm tone. The same tone in her grandmother’s voice. “Did Mamma wake you up?” Jessica said as she grabbed him, giving him a long tight hug.

“No. I couldn’t sleep. Nonna didn’t read me my favorite story.” Luca said standing there still holding his teddy bear tight.

“Let’s read it together then, shall we?” Jessica said grabbing Luca by the hand.

“Okay.” the boy said.

Sofia kept looking at the two. Tears overcame her eyes. Jessica saw Francesco when she looked at the kid but Sofia kept seeing Manuel, her little boy. Jessica gave a warm look of relief at Sofia before leaving, heading to Luca’s room. The only thing that brought her back to her senses was her lovely son. Her love for him was the same for his papa, Francesco.

The 7th precinct was buzzing with constant chatter between its officers. They gathered in the main lobby, waiting for their captain to take the podium and give one of the most highly anticipated speeches of the year - an address about the current situation of organized crime in New York City.

The details weren’t made available to the public and only a few knew of the exact details of the speech. New York City was being run by new gangs of lawless bandits. The escalation in violence had reached an all-time high after the Bloodshed, a massacre that New York’s crime families wanted to forget forever.

Despite the high number of police present at the press conference, there were reporters from all of the local newspapers and television stations to report and broadcast the event live. Some anxious media were trying to get statements from the high-ranking officers present but the captain’s orders were clear. Do not talk to the press.

More than half an hour had passed, and the media became more and more anxious. This could be the story that could launch their careers if today’s announcement was attention-grabbing.

The captain of the 7th police precinct stepped slowly to the podium, a few feet away from the crowd. He looked tired and even at that moment, had the look of a person besieged by thousands and one expectation.

He removed his hat and combed back his grey hair. Then he placed his arms behind his back, looking powerful. Despite his tired appearance, he appeared to be in control. Confident that everything would soon fall into place.

The lobby was lit up with a barrage of white camera flashes; everyone trying to capture the mood of the moment. The repeated flashes continued nonstop until the captain raised his palm. “Please,” he said with a tone of authority. Most of the flashes had stopped like lamps reaching closer to their life expectancy.

Silence had overtaken the hall as he went on.

The captain cleared his throat and planned the next words that would come out of his mouth. He didn’t read the notes he had prepared.

The captain’s hand trembled, but he placed it behind his back to make it stop. It was a trembling resulting from his displeasure with the cloud of corruption that continues to linger despite all efforts to eradicate it. It also was a sign of fear knowing that some wanted to take control of the city by unlawful means. The captain continued:

The captain paused taking a sip of water close by, knowing that what he was going to say in the next few minutes would shake the room. Before then, he talked about ways that his police force was working to step up efforts to hire good officers and that there were still citizens who supported the police in their communities and they would continue to help report illegal activities. Then, the captain restated that a few bad cops have led to internal chaos in the past and that we don’t want to repeat these events.

The return of flashes and the sounds of cameras’ clicking echoed throughout the lobby, smothering the last words of the captain. The reporters were yelling in a loud buzzing with no meaning. The captain raised his hand but the noise only got louder.

His last statement left the media persons stunned. They were there to find the golden goose that would make them writer or reporter of the year. “Silence or I will have you removed,” the captain yelled as the flashes stopped. The lobby returned to silence.

“This is why…” the captain repeated and took a few seconds to maintain his calmness.

Most that were present knew the captain and the mayor agreed to bring out the big guns for political reasons. Still, they stood there with their jaws dropped, unable to hide their emotions. The silence was drowned in sighs as everyone wanted the captain to finish his address, so they can ask questions.

The captain then turned to the side, looking deep at a small corner in the lobby. A tall man approached and took the captain’s position on the podium.

The man was filled with confidence and had an aura of authority. His black hair, combed back with mousse, was bushy on both sides as it appeared that he was growing bald. Dressed in a black suit with a small pin of the American flag close to his neck, the man fixed his tie and cleared his throat.

“Thank you, captain, for filling in the people, but let me present my side of how our task force sees the situation,” the man said with a deep voice. His voice was soothing but could get harsh in a split second.

“My name is David Allen. I am the head of the new organized crime task force. I spent years working with the Bureau and the CIA. Your city is rotten to its core.” he said and paused as the reporters started another stream of yells, this time along with some officers who were outraged by the statement.

David let the crowd go on, waiting like a teacher in a classroom for the children to stop. He knew he was in charge from now on. His patience and confident look made the shouts of the entire crowd fade away as if he had some kind of weird utopia.

The man suddenly stopped and left the podium leaving everyone shocked.

The captain quickly came up again as everyone was frightened by the new crime-fighting boss’s introduction. “I will now answer any questions you may have.” The captain knew that there would be a flood of shouting, camera flashes, and rebuttals that would be hurled his way.

Meanwhile, Special Agent, David Allen made his way back to his new office as the lobby was overwhelmed with a noise like a concert of a pop star. He shut the door and still the noise found its way inside. Fixing his tie once again, he grabbed the phone and dialed the number of his commanding headquarters. “Sir. We are ready to begin the operation” he said in a tone of respect for hierarchy towards his superior.

“Excellent work, David. Keep me posted” the muffled old voice echoed on the other line.

“Yes, Commander.” David hung up and took a seat behind his desk. He looked at his nearly-empty desk, returning a pen that was out of its position. Perfect! The files on all the organized crime gangs were on his left and police records were on the right. The first file he picked up from the pile read Giuliani.

David began reading the file like a student preparing for the SATs, writing notes in his empty notebook in front of him. It was time to get rid of the hoodlums in this city, once and for all.

Jessica was walking downtown through the busy streets of New York City. The black scarf around her neck was moving up and down on the top of her bosoms. Her eyes were concealed behind her sunglasses as the sunlight pierced the ground softly. Because of the cold, Jessica Lombardi could see her breath every second she exhaled. 

Her son, Luca was walking beside her, wearing a green jacket and a black knitted cap. His cheeks were reddened and his green eyes stood out. He was holding his mother’s hand tightly. His grip got tighter as they got closer to his new school. He was about to part from his mother for the first time.

His stomach tightened the moment they reached the front doors of the school. Luca looked upwards at his mother giving her a worrisome look. Jessica smiled warmly; a smile that could melt away the cold. “We’re here, my baby,” she said. Luca gasped as he couldn’t find words to say. “Are you nervous?” Jessica asked playfully, teasing Luca.

“N-no.” he stuttered.

“You shouldn’t be. There’s nothing to be afraid of.”

“Will you be gone for a long time?” the boy asked embarrassed by his question.

“I’ll be back in no time. Okay?” 

“O-okay.”

“If anything happens, I’ll be here right away.”

The boy smiled feeling safer, knowing his mother would be nearby. 

“Make a few friends today, sweetheart. That is what school is for, my dear. Have some fun but listen to your teachers.” Jessica winked. Luca trusted his mother and nodded.

“Did you like school when you were little?” the boy asked before going inside.

“I loved it! And I was pretty good at it.” Jessica said playing with her hair. “You’ll be good at it if you remember to have fun and do your work!” she pushed him softly in the back, to get his attention on the kids playing at the playground.

“Okay, mama.”

Their conversation was interrupted when the principal of the school appeared at the front doors.

“Miss. Lombardi?” 

“Giuliani,” Jessica said in response.

“Principal Logan. A pleasure to meet you, Miss Giuliani.” the principal took a step forward stretching out his hand. Jessica goes on and shakes it. “And you must be, Luca, my boy?” the principal said rubbing his head. “Let’s go inside and see the other children. Shall we?” Taking the boy’s hand, Luca nodded.

“Mr. Logan, don’t let anything happen to my boy.”

Principal Logan heard that over a million times and replied, “Don’t worry, Miss. Giuliani? Luca’s in good hands.”

Jessica stood there, watching the principal walk away with her little son. She felt a sharp pain inside her chest. Her breathing suddenly became heavier. She could feel the pain in her chest due to not being able to cope with leaving her son with strangers. Jessica wanted to have him around her at all times and couldn’t take any chances of anything happening to him. Luca was the only male around in her household. He was the only thing Francesco left her. It was the best parting gift that one could leave in his place.

Jessica smiled gingerly knowing that he would be okay. She put on her sunglasses and walked, heading to the Baldinotti Residence, 72 Port Street, Fourth Floor, New York, New York. It would take twenty minutes to reach, but she preferred to go alone without her bodyguards. She didn’t want the unnecessary attention. No one knew she was back in town.

The streets of New York are always jam-packed. Jessica wasn’t in a rush to reach Sabina’s house, letting the memories of the past occupy her mind. The cold winter air felt good giving her a feeling of euphoria. She detoured passing by Castello Di Vino, hoping to find Federico inside, but the ruined vacant sight made her feel sad.

The front entrance was boarded up, with the shattered glass still lying on the pub’s floor. There was a yellow ribbon waving on the outside reading the words - crime scene. She peeped inside seeing the remains of bullet holes on the walls and around the counter. Everything was still intact but abandoned. There was an old sign in one of the windows reading “For Sale”.

Jessica took off her sunglasses, holding back her tears. She reflected on the special moments she had with Francesco inside that pub; the first drink, the day she first kissed him and the day they almost got killed. Then she remembered the biggest day of them all; the day they ran away and almost got married.

Then her mind shifted to Federico. He‘s probably spending his final days, broken just like his pub. But Jessica never forgot about him especially his cheerful mood even in the darkest of moments.

Jessica took a deep breath and hurried walking through the streets of New York. She vowed revenge for Francesco’s death and owed her family a legacy. As she walked, her determination of upholding her end of the deal became set in stone.

Jacopo Saltinotti was sitting in the back of the “Palermo” restaurant, enjoying a glass of Franciacorta. The restaurant was empty, with only the owner and a waiter standing near the door, with the ‘Closed’ sign hanging in its front. 

The tables were covered with argyle tablecloths, just like most Italian restaurants. Candles were placed in the middle of each table, next to small flowerpots, which made the place look expensive and hospitable. Only the candle on Jacopo’s table was shedding its flickering light in the store, lighting up the dark corner of the restaurant. The blurred light entering the windows was not enough to brighten the whole place.

Jacopo grabbed a piece of Acceglio from the plate in front of him and finished his wine. He raised his arm, revealing his expensive golden watch, hiding under his expensive tailor-made Italian suit. He lifted his glass to the waiter to pour another glass of Franciacorta. 

The waiter rushed to Jacopo’s side, holding with respect an old dusty bottle. “Here you go, Don.” The waiter then returned to his post as Jacopo nodded. He took another sip and gargled it as if he was a professional sommelier. He closed his eyes with joy as the exquisite taste trickled down his throat.

The sound of the bell rang as the door opened. A man dressed in a large black trench coat entered and hurried toward Jacopo’s table. His curly black hair was messy and his receding hairline stood out. He was three times bigger than Jacopo. His fingers each had gold rings. 

Despite his size, he was afraid of Jacopo. He reached the table and bowed, taking Jacopo’s hand into his own and kissing it with respect. “Don Jacopo…” he said breathing heavily, taking a seat on the other side of the table.

Without saying a word, Jacopo took a small wooden comb out of his pocket and combed his black hair to the side. “When did I give you permission to sit?” Jacopo found the fat man’s conduct hilarious. The man’s face was painted with panic as he struggled to stand up. “You are interrupting my wine hour” 

“I- I know.” the fat man stuttered taking a step away from the table.

“What’s so important to disturb my tea time?”

“Don Jacopo.” the man’s voice trembled as Jacopo lifted his glass and took another sip. His dark blue eyes stared deep inside the fat man’s.

“I’m listening.” Jacopo signaled the man to continue.

“There are some rumors in the street, Don. It is said that Jessica Lombardi’s back in town.” the fat man said avoiding Jacopo’s sight.

Before Jacopo took another sip, he froze. Then he put the glass on the table slowly as if time was in slow motion. “What the fuck?”

“Jessica Lom-“

“I heard you the first time. When did you hear this?”

“Yesterday afternoon, Boss. One of my men said he saw her and her family at the port.” the fat man started taking a step back from the table. Jacopo smiled but his face revealed something bad was about to happen. It was a smile that made the waiter take a few steps closer to the back of the restaurant.

“So, I presume that your men didn’t see her today, right?” Jacopo hobbled like a man who had trouble standing up.

“N-no, Boss. It was only yesterday.” the fat man took another step backward, plunging into a stool, making it fall to the ground.

“And did we follow her?” Jacopo started walking towards the man.

“I was only informed by my men yesterday. Please, I can ex-“ the fat man’s sentence was interrupted by Jacopo’s fist landing on his face. Then landing on his ear, making him lose his balance.

The man’s head was ringing as if a grenade exploded inside the restaurant. He raised his arms, almost as if he was pleading for his life. Another fist landed on his nose. The fat man felt his nose crack. His eyes were filled with tears. He wanted to scream, but he couldn’t in front of the Don. 

Jacopo cracked his knuckles as the fat man was moving further backward in a state of drunkenness and desperation. “You didn’t think to tell me yesterday afternoon?” Jacopo punched the man again in the face and then on his right temple, sending the man down on the floor. The man raised his arms to cover his face but Jacopo was landing punch after punch.

“I came here as soon…” the man tried to say but another punch interrupted him. Blood sprayed out of his mouth and his lips and face were swollen.

Jacopo sat on the man’s big belly and kept punching him in the face. The man tried defending himself but Jacopo had struck him too many times. His reflexes weren’t quick enough and Jacopo had him pinned down on the ground. Jacopo kept punching until the man stopped moving completely. 

The waiter and the owner of the restaurant were hiding speechless. The waiter was almost near the exit while the owner was peeking from behind the counter. Jacopo got up taking off his white suit, covered in blood, like an artist who created a modern piece of art. His suit falls off his shoulders, revealing his black vest and silver Smith and Wesson dangling on his waist. He went back to his seat and took another of the Franciacorta while cleaning the blood from his hands with a velvet towel.

“Clean this mess up now and get me a phone.”

“Yes, Don,” the owner responded.

Jacopo sat thinking deeply, acting as if nothing had happened. The fat man with the gold rings was dead on the floor and Jacopo didn’t give a fuck.

Jessica was standing outside an old rusted building with cracks on its walls, ready to collapse. The smell of the docks brought back memories of her first assignment by a father to try to entice Elias. This time it would be much different.

The number 72 was written on an old bronze sign. The lot appeared vacant as if no one was living inside. Jessica walked through the small-withered garden in the front, reaching the main entrance. She looked at the names on the apartment phones - Sabina Baldinotti, Apartment 4C. That’s hers.

She entered inside heading towards an old elevator shaft and pressed button four. The elevator rumbled; a sign it need to be replaced soon.

The fourth floor was filled with the smell of chicken soup. Jessica walked on its purple carpet searching for apartment 4C. Once she reached the end of the corridor, she spotted the door. She recalled her first mission with her brother, Giovanni as she knocked on the door.

A few moments later, heavy footsteps could be heard behind the door. “Who is it?” a deep voice asked.

“Jessica Lombardi.” Hearing that name, the door suddenly unlocked. There a big man looked at her through the crack, with the latch hanging on the door.

“Who are you again?” the man asked scratching his beard.

“I’m the head of the Lombardi family,” Jessica responded unfazed by the man’s intimidating voice.

“Wait here.” the man closed the door and returned a few moments later. The door was opened, with the man blocking the entrance. “Any weapons?” he asked taking a step closer. Jessica lifted her purse and handed it to the man.

“Here you go.” 

The man opened the purse and turned it upside down, dropping its contents on the ground. Makeup, tissues, and a car key fell out.

“I have no metal on me.”

The big man then told Jessica that he had orders to pat her down.

“Go ahead.”

He patted her legs up to her thighs. Jessica knew he was a pervert by the way he slowly moved upwards. If she contested, then her meeting would be in jeopardy. 

Afterward, the man threw the bag back at her and moved to the side. “Sabina is waiting for you,” he said extending his arm, urging Jessica to come inside. Jessica picked up her things from the ground and walked inside with the poise of a woman who owned the building.

The apartment was nothing like the outside of the building. The interior was covered with a silky gray carpet. The kitchen was decorated and every surface seemed to reflect like a mirror. Sabina was sitting in the living room, drinking a cup of tea, which made the whole room smell like exotic fruits.

Jessica entered and saw Sabina for the first time in years. She was a young girl in her twenties dressed in tight workout gear. Sabina smiled and nodded for Jessica to sit down. Jessica leaned over to kiss her hand. 

As Jessica did so, the man yelled from the back. “Keep your distance from the Donna!”

“It’s okay, Carl.” Jessica took a seat on the sofa across from Sabina.

“Pleasure to see you, Sabina. It’s been years.” Jessica took off her sunglasses placing them inside her purse. 

“The notorious - Jessica Lombardi. Would you like a cup of tea?”

“Yes, please,” Jessica said trying not to insult her.

“You heard the Donna, Carl. Hurry.” the man went to the kitchen.

“How was your trip?” Sabina asked proudly about Jessica’s return to New York.

“I’m still getting used to it.” Jessica didn’t want to feel intimidated by the young girl in front of her. 

“How’re the things in New York?” 

“I think you already know.”

“I do know and just wanted to know your thoughts on how things are on the frontline, Donna.”

“You try to do something good for the Italians and you get screwed over.”

“So, I heard.”

A moment of awkward silence followed with only the kettle on the fire whistling like a train ready to leave. Sabina stared at Jessica as if she was trying to learn everything she could. Sabina’s bodyguard entered the living room, handing Jessica a cup.

“Leave us to be, Carl.” the man left the room closing the doors. Jessica took a sip and put the mug on the table in front of her.

“So. To what do I owe the pleasure?” Sabina opened smiling. Jessica smiled back, glad that Sabina to started. It was a trick Sofia told her from the old ways of the Italians to gain leverage in any discussion.

“We have a lot to discuss.”

“I expected you much sooner, Donna Jessica.” 

“You did?” 

“The only Lombardi alive, or out of prison returns to New York. There must be a good explanation for your coming.” 

“There is actually.”

“Shall I feel honored?”

“Feel honored for what?” 

“Aren’t you here to ask for my help?”

Jessica chuckled. This girl is too confident and hasn’t proved her worth yet. The Baldinottis haven’t taught her manners either. 

“I am actually, yes.”

“Then, I’m listening,” Sabina said crossing her legs.

“I heard you were screwed over by the Saltinottis and…”

“And you want my help to take them down.”

“Since you already know so much, why don’t you tell me your terms, Sabina?”

“Fifty percent of the business,” she said playfully but seriously. 

“What business?” 

“The one we will run.”

“Don’t you think your number is over the top for what you can offer, Sabina?” 

“Is it?”

Jessica was feeling bullied by this youngster. However, the Baldinotti girl had some wit that Jessica was beginning to like. Jessica took a deep breath, trying to regain control of the conversation.

“Yes, it is Sabina. You need me as much as I need you? Don’t you?” 

“And why is that?” she said leaning closer.

“The Saltinottis almost took away everything you own. Do you think you can survive alone?” 

“The Saltinottis are not my concern right now, Donna Jessica.”

“Let’s cut the crap, Sabina. With the Jamaicans controlling the guns, you have no business to run in this city.”

Sabina leaned back and Jessica knew she had just hit her nerve. All she had to do was keep pushing. “I know you struck a deal with the Saltinottis to get back into the gun business while I was gone and they didn’t meet their end of the bargain.”

“What if I told you I could get you to control off the gun market once again and make you Donna over the Saltinottis?”

“I can’t go against them. Not after what they’ve done.” 

“You’d be crazy to do business with them alone. I’m offering an alliance.” 

“The Baldinottis with the Lombardis?”

“And the Giulianis!” 

Sabina’s face was full of disgust. That name “Giuliani” was the nail in the coffin. Francesco killed her father. “That is why I want fifty percent of the business.” she spat warning Jessica. “Do you think I will work with the fottuto family that killed my father? Do you want me to say thank you as well, brutto figlio di puttana?” Sabina kept ranting.

Jessica listened waiting calmly for her to end. 

“Yes and I apologize.” Sabina surprised by Jessica’s statement, smiled arrogantly. 

“Your father tried to go behind the Giulianis’ backs.”

“He went behind their backs to help you, Lombardis!”

“You know the rules, Sabina. It was a tragedy but…”

“How dare you?”

“If the Giulianis are evil, then the Saltinottis are the devils, Sabina,” Jessica shouted and the bodyguard in the next room ran into the living room. Sabina gestured for him that everything was okay. “What do you want from me, Jessica Lombardi?” 

“An alliance. The gun market is yours and I want fifteen percent. This is my final offer. You can either join me or stay here and watch your father’s empire collapse.”

“I won’t tolerate the Giulianis messing around in my business.”

“They won’t. They have the utmost respect for you and will honor my wishes regarding you.”

“And Sofia? I heard she came back with you. I believe you already started an alliance.” 

“We are one family. There is no alliance yet. I will be organizing the families to form one.”

Sabina stood up pondering over Jessica’s proposition. 

“I won’t let my pride ruin my family’s business,” she said smiling at Jessica; the same playful smile she had at the beginning. “When do we meet, Donna Jessica?” she said with a tone of respect.

“I will be calling a meeting for the Italian families to come, inviting them to join as one family. We will take over every single gang’s business in New York including the Salinottis. New York belongs to us and us alone.” Jessica said clenching her fists.

“It’s a pleasure to do business with you,” Sabina said standing up and crouching over to kiss Jessica’s hand. Jessica pulled it back quickly as if Sabina displeased her.

“No need for formalities, Sabina. I want to know I can trust you with my life.”

“You can.” Sabina said holding Jessica’s hand.

“I got to get going. You’ll be updated about the meeting.” Jessica said in a hurry, leaving Sabina and the big man inside the living room.

Jessica exited the building, happy that she struck her first deal on her own. Her plan to bring together the families was a step closer to becoming reality.

Sofia was sitting on a cold bench across the street from Luca’s school. She spent the last thirty minutes waiting for the school to dismiss the children for the day. The cold winds passed through her hair, making them wave like a flag. Sofia kept looking left and right expecting the unexpected; the instincts of a Don’s widow.

A man in a black suit, wearing sunglasses walked towards her and took a seat. “Glad you are back.” the man said looking straight ahead at the school as if he was waiting for his child to walk outside the schoolyard.

“I’m glad, I’m back. Too much damn pasta and good wine” Sofia said laughing faintly while looking at her grandson’s school.

“What was that phone call about?”

“We‘re back in business.”

“We?” 

“Jessica Lombardi and I.”

“Michael’s bambina?”

“Si.”

“How? Why?”

“You know why, Andrea.”

The man nodded while Sofia wasn’t looking at him. “Since…” the man paused.

“Since my husband’s death, we‘ve been hunted like rabid animals. That’s why we‘re back to take control of New York once again.”

“That Stronzo Jacopo. He‘s the worst thing that could ever happen to us, Italians here in New York.”

“Who?” 

“Jacopo Saltinotti. The merda’s a psychopath.”

“He’s running things down here now? I thought he was just a Soldato.”

“He was.”

“But?”

“But desperate times require desperate measures.”

Sofia felt sad as if she was the one to blame for this madness.

“So, how can I help?”

“We’re allying with the families.”

“Impossible.”

“Jessica had already talked to Sabina.”

“She’ll never side with you after what your son had done.” 

“She already has agreed to. It’s not about one family is in control.”

“Then what?” the man asked and stopped realizing that he answered his question. The man nodded realizing what Sofia meant.

“Anyone else?”

“No. You‘re the first I’ve reached out to personally.”

“I’m glad you did. You know I was always loyal to Luca.”

“I know I can trust you, my good friend.”

“You can. We’ve been out of the game a long time.”

“So have we, Andrea.”

Both remained silent for a moment. Andrea’s face had lit up like a lighthouse seen in the distance of a dark sea. He thought about the good old days when Sofia and Luca were on top and how his empire flourished.

“Okay, I’m in.”

“I knew you would be. Anyone else I need to reach out to?”

“We‘re like livestock with no farmers. Reach out to the Episcopos and Fondas.” The man lowered his voice and wanted to keep this between himself and Sofia.

“The Episcopos are still in the business of building churches?”

“That’s the only thing they have now. They’ll want to join.”

“Thank you, Andrea. We’ll be having a family dinner in three days. I expect you to be there.”

“It’s great to see you back, Sofia.”

“Likewise.”

“New York needs you now more than ever.” Andrea got up, holding his hat, so it wouldn’t be blown away, and walked down the road as if he was never there. 

Sofia remained there proudly smiling. She was respected and most feared by the old Dons of New York City. Luca’s name still had prominence. The new gangsters in town will soon realize. Her eyes watered and think about the old days of Michael and Luca. The mutual respect they had for each other’s territories. Nowadays, no one respects no one even the Italians.

A few minutes later, the school bell rang, and the schoolyard was filled with kids, running around in paradise. A flood of little kids stood on the pavement outside the school and among them, Sofia’s grandson, Luca smiling. Sofia walked over, rubbing his head and grabbing him by the hand. The two of them walked home, going over Luca’s first day at school. He was excited to meet new friends.

Jessica passed through the walls of the hospital noticing dozens of patients in the lobbies waiting for their test results to come back and demanding that the doctors hurry up and see them.

Her heart pounded heavily with each step she took closer to Room 2A. The room where her father had resided for the last five years.

Jessica reached outside of her father’s room, her hand was about to brace the silver door handle when she paused. She felt like a contestant who was about to open a mystery door. Once she went inside, she took a seat on an old green armchair.

The sound of the heart rate monitor was in sync with the voice of a reporter on TV. Then, the top of the news-hour main headline popped up on the screen: Organized crime is coming to an end in New York. This headline has been in all the daily papers and news outlets for the past few days. Jessica grabbed the remote control and shut off the TV, focusing on the rhythmical beeping of her father’s heart monitor.

Michael was lying lifeless on the bed with two plastic tubes inside his nostrils. His eyes were closed shut and he seemed to be in a state of peace. He looked at least forty pounds thinner than the last time Jessica saw him. He was like a skeleton being kept alive.

There were no signs of injuries. It’s been five years since the Bloodshed and still, he hasn’t recovered. Giovanni did his best to take care of his father but now he’s in jail, and no one was around to check on the Don. Luca’s old body just seemed as if it was just passing time with no value. Jessica placed her sunglasses on the bed stand and grabbed her father’s hand. She squeezed him like a young girl when she was afraid, hoping to get some comfort from her parents. It felt like the same squeeze, young Luca gave her earlier in the day on the way to school.

“Hey, Papa,” Jessica muttered as she held back the tears trying to crawl down her cheeks. “I miss you so much,” she said noticing the serum tube that pierced his palm. “I‘m back for you.” Jessica was unable to find the right words. She watched him closely, thinking of all the moments they spent together.

“We never got the chance to talk after what happened,” Jessica continued. “I‘ve missed you so much.” The tears on her cheeks were running loose, but she didn’t care. She didn’t even try to hold back now.

“Giovanni‘s in prison. He’s having a hard time but is still alive. For now at least,” Jessica paused grabbing a paper towel and blowing her nose. “I’m back to run our family business, Papa.”

“Remember when you told me I’m not cut out for this? Remember when I screwed up over and over again?” she pretended to wait for his answer. “I struck a deal with Sabina. A bad deal if you ask me. But it’s a deal, right?” Jessica was desperate for her father’s approval. She wanted to hear his voice, telling her how much he loved her. How proud he was and how they would run the business together. How he would help her take revenge for Serena, for Francesco.

“How did you do it? How did you set aside your differences and work with Luca? How were you not blinded by hatred?” she kept asking pressing her father’s hand against her forehead. “I want to do this right. I can’t stop thinking about you and Francesco. I want to run the business right, as you both did…” Jessica paused.

Her emotions of vengeance began to form. She was talking to herself although her father was there. He was in a deep coma. “I want them these Salinottis to suffer as we did. I want them to die, knowing I was the reason for their deaths. Our dynasty must remain alive!” Jessica raised her voice without realizing she was almost shouting. “ I want…” she broke down once again.

“I want you to come back, Papa. I need you now more than ever. You, Serena, and Francesco. I need you all here. You knew about all this family business stuff. I’m not like you. I’m not…” Jessica hid her face, crying on the bedsheets; crying like the day she lost them and almost everything.

Jessica rose and wiped the tears off of her face. She took a long deep breath, regaining control over her wild sentiments. She was like a rider taming a wild horse. “I married when I went back to Italy, Papa.” Jessica laughed awkwardly. “I know it’s weird and don’t know if it was love or my way to move on. Alberto‘s a nice guy. and loves me. I can never love or trust him like Francesco.”

“It was nice talking to you. It’s been so long” Jessica said putting on her sunglasses. “I love you, Papa.” Jessica kissed him on the forehead and exited the room, walking by the patients still waiting and suffering just like Jessica and her father.

Mr. Zhang Wei was sitting in a meeting room inside one of his factories. The windows were broken, letting a soft gust of wind inside. The temperature was colder than usual and the table was big enough to host more than ten. But only Zhang was there alone with a porcelain teapot in front of him. Two porcelain mugs with pink flowers were the only decoration on display.

The smell of Dragon Pearl Jasmine was stuffing his nostrils, blocking out all the odors outside. Three armed men were standing by the doors, holding Uzis. Silence overtook the place unless ordered otherwise. Zhang took a sniff from the teapot and the pot’s steam made his glasses blurry. He put his glasses down and cleaned them with a black silk handkerchief with golden crest swords printed on it.

A few minutes passed by when the doors opened causing a grinding sound like metal hitting the ground. Zhang turned around calmly under the flickering lamps that made the place look like an old abandoned hospital. The guards held their guns tightly. Footsteps could be heard from afar, and a man dressed in a white suit suddenly emerged through the gloom.

“Jacopo!” Zhang stood up offering a bow of respect. Jacopo walked fast ignoring him and grabbed a seat.

“Mr. Zhang,” he said calmly.

“All alone?” the man asked in broken English.

“Si,” answered Jacopo crossing his hands on the table.

“Good,” Zhang said taking a seat, annoyed by Jacopo’s behavior.

“My time is precious, Mr. Zhang. I suggest we get to the matter right away.” Jacopo said looking at his nails, making sure they were perfect.

“Let’s have tea first” Zhang proposed raising the teapot towards Jacopo.

“No time for drinks,” Jacopo said leaning back in his chair.

“Okay. We, Triads, need your help, Mr. Jacopo.” Zhang poured tea into his mug.

“And why is that?”