Chapter 41

“Francesco, we’ll know our structure has been shaken the moment they turn against us,” I say, finally looking at my father. “And then it will be too late. Don’t you see, Don?” “That’s why I repeat—Francesco, did you see anything that proves something other than routine business is happening there?” “We spill the blood of enemies or traitors. We do it for information or to send a message. We kill their families, their children, their women—because they are enemies too. Enemies,” he emphasizes. “But we don’t do it to our own mothers.” He laughs bitterly. “Would you do that to her?” “Valentina?” I say neutrally, not giving it much weight. “Don’t make that face—I know you care about your girl. I don’t know if you’re completely taken by her, if you just like her, if it’s protection or posse