Francesco was sitting opposite Adele looking at the drinks menu in the private suit of a luxurious bar restaurant while Adele was looking at her shopping bags "Francesco... I don't think I have ever shopped this much for Christmas."
Francesco kept looking at the menu "There is a first time for everything sweetheart."
Adele put her hand under her chin and leaned to the table as she watched Francesco "Other husbands complain on shopping trips. You never do."
Francesco replied in a bored tone "It's because those husbands don't know what they have right in front of them."
Adele asked "Tell me Francesco what is in front of you when you shop with me? All you see is ladies clothes."
Francesco glanced up "Sweetheart I only see you trying to buy the most plain clothes and I have to stop you. That's what I see."
Adele said "That's not totally true."
Francesco said "Of course. Because I see much more too."
Adele asked "What else do you see?"
Francesco stated simply as he glanced back at the drinks menu "I see my wife and the mother of my children. I see a woman who is the reason I have a home I want to return to every day. Sweetheart. You know how much you mean to me."
Adele said "If I mean so much to you then why don't you listen to me when I say we should go home right now? We have guests dropping by for Christmas Eve."
Francesco glanced up at Adele "Sweetheart. You are my woman and I do respect your wishes but I don't always grant them. You should be used to this by now." He then glanced back at the menu "I think I am ready to order." He then called the barman "A glass of the house wine for me and a glass of champagne for my wife." The waiter quickly nodded and walked away.
Adele sighed "Francesco, I said I want to go home. It's Christmas Eve. I want to get Home to prepare dinner for our guests and to get the kids ready for tonight's mass at the church."
Francesco put the menu away "Then maybe you need some energy. Shall I order some olives and cheese with bread perhaps? How about that?" As he was about to put his hand up, Adele stopped him by putting her hand on his "I am not hungry."
Francesco didn't reply. He put his other hand up and ordered more food.
Adele gave up and sat back. She never won arguments against him unless he wishes to change his mind. Francesco did make choices for but he let her choose of course too. Although, if she did not make a choice that was to his liking he dismissed it or made sure he showed his displeasure and complained non stop until Adele went with his choices. Francesco was persuasive.
When the waiter came back he brought vodka on ice with champagne on ice. He also brought so much more food with variety. Francesco said "This is not what I ordered."
The waiter stuttered "Sir. My boss demanded that I deliver these drinks."
Francesco said "I would like to have a word with your boss."
The waiter nodded and walked away. He then called all other waiters and guards out. Seconds later Francesco watched Sergei Santiago walk in with a smile. He was not surprised. Sergei loved surprises and if he was in town he appeared. Francesco knew he owned this place but he didn't think he would show up.
As Sergei reached the table he nodded at Francesco and then leaned down on the table with one hand and stared at Adele "Hello. Nice to see you Adele."
Adele couldn't believe sergei. He had interrupted them and Francesco hadn't reacted. Normally he was hostile to intruders. But sergei was an exception.
Sergei just smiled and didn't wait for her reply as he took a seat on a chair around the table. He opened the bottle of vodka and poured one glass for himself. He then poured one glass for Francesco. As he was about to reach for the Champaign, Francesco cleared his throat "I will do it." He then opened the Champaign bottle and poured one glass for Adele. He turned to sergei as he sat down. He spoke in a hard tone "Sergei. Why did you change my order?"
Sergei replied "Why give you wine when I have the finest vodka? I only offer the best to you Francesco."
Francesco replied "Of course. But that was before I called in a favour with you. Now we are even. You said it yourself." His tone was cold but respectful.
Sergei frowned staring into Francesco's eyes. "Francesco. We both know nothing has changed. The truth is Francesco I don't like to be in debt of anybody. It feels great to call it even. I think this improves my friendship with you Francesco. It runs in my blood to not want to owe anyone anything in theory. But Francesco just because I don't owe you anything doesn't mean I don't feel gratitude to you. I call you a friend ...."
Francesco corrected "Your only American friend." Francesco then turned to Adele "Is all well sweetheart? Don't you like the drink and food?"
Adele looked at Francesco "No it's fine." She then drank from champagne and picked up an olive. Francesco always noticed her needs even if he was facing a dangerous criminal who could snap any minute. He checked on her to see why she wasn't drinking yet.
Francesco smiled at her and then turned to sergei "I thought you are busy sergei. Why are you here? It's Christmas Eve."
Sergei said "I came here on my way from the O'Kane mansion where I had a meeting which went well. I just dropped by to pick up some paper work and noticed you were here. I thought I come and say hi again."
Francesco said "Of course. Anything else sergei?"
Sergei said "Yes actually. I want to ask you this. Why are you going to the same church as the O'Kanes? I agreed because you had. But do you think it's wise to mix with those Irish?"
Francesco said "On my invitation to you I did say that they are this year attending the same church with us Italians. This is to show unity in face of FBI. It's not unreasonable. You don't have to attend. You never have to do anything. The time for working alone has passed. We can't work alone sergei."
Sergei argued "I never said we work alone. I agreed to work with you to be a step ahead of FBI. Didn't I? We work together but we don't have to pray together. Unless ... you call them your family... Your daughter is not married yet to Tristan..."
Francesco said "Sergei. Don't go there. I don't comment on Anastasia who you went to interrogate Jonas O'Kane for."
Sergei smiled "I interrogated Jonas to see if he has respect as my standard procedure. He does have respect. But ... I don't call the O'Kanes family. My daughter is different. She is not like other girls. She is hard to settle for anything. The O'Kane kid is no match for my daughter. I feel sorry for Jonas. My daughter is very difficult...." He then chuckled as he looked away "Enough about my daughter. Let's talk of your son. He is nearby. Are you aware?" He then glanced at Francesco.
Francesco said "He was at the airport when I last spoke to him. He does hang out with those who he wishes. As long as he makes it for dinner at least I do not need to know what he does."
Sergei asked "Really? You don't wish to know what he is upto right now? I tell you. He is hanging out with my son, Alejandro. That's interesting. They are at the gentleman club doing some business. The youth learn fast to click together."
Francesco nodded "They do."
Sergei stood up suddenly "I will see you tonight at the church. I am only attending because you are." He then nodded politely at Adele and walked away.
Francesco got his message. Sergei still showed him respect. He turned to Adele "Now. Where were we sweetheart?"
Adele said "Can we go Francesco?"
Francesco sighed "Sweetheart. You heard sergei. Our son is nearby and doing business with his son. I would like to catch up with our son first. But you can go home sweetheart ... after you finish your drink and food."
Adele sighed. It was impossible to argue with Francesco. She did not protest and did as she was asked. Meanwhile Francesco kept his stare on her watching her eat and drink silently. He liked watching her. He never got tired of her and Adele didn't know how he could love her so much. She had many flaws. But he loved her. By standards in his world she was weak but he didn't care. He protected her.
When Francesco was satisfied he announced that she was allowed to go home accompanied by guards while he attended to Vincenzo.
As Francesco sent Adele Home, he made his way to the area where they dealt cars. That was Alejandro's rare spot for meetings. There was heavy snow and roads were blocked mostly. Francesco didn't manage to reach his destination but as Vincenzo made his way back from the one way route, Francesco spotted his car blocking the road with his.
Vincenzo got off his car and so did his body guards.
Francesco also mirrored his actions. He signalled to his bodyguards to stand back as he walked to Vincenzo. He reached his son and Vincenzo's state bore into his. He was leaning to his car with a smile. He slowly walked to his father and embraced him.
Francesco held his son as he whispered "Missed you son."
Vincenzo nodded "Let's walk father." He then pointed to an Italian cafe that was on the side. The cafe was owned by the rosarios.
Francesco nodded and made his way inside. Vincenzo followed. They made their way to the basement where there were secret passages and meeting rooms more luxurious than the cafe itself.
There was silence in the room. Vincenzo sat down on a sofa in the main meeting room as his father took a seat opposite him. Vincenzo took a deep breath and leaned back as he crossed his legs. He then rested his hands on the arms of the sofa. He smiled confidently. "Father. What is happening?"
Francesco stared into his eyes as he leaned forward with crossed arms over his chest "You tell me son."
Vincenzo asked "What would you like to know?"
Francesco asked with interest in his tone "Is your grandpa dying anytime soon?"
Vincenzo said "The old don Vitorio is unwell. He has been unwell for a while."
Francesco shook his head "I am talking about your grandpa. Not your great grandpa."
Vincenzo raised an eyebrow. He could see the expectation behind his father's eyes. His father meant his words. He wanted to know if he was dead "He is healthy. His heart beats like a twenty year old youth or so the family doctor says." He felt like it was appropriate to say sorry. It was a peculiar feeling he had. He felt like he owed his father an apology since his grandfather was breathing.
Francesco leaned back and his expression hardened. He remained silent staring at his son. He thought to himself "How disappointing?" He then sighed "Is there anything worth hearing for me son? I doubt your time in Sicily is bearing any good news then."
Vincenzo said "Father. You are expected in Sicily in the summer time when there is the major forces gathering. The old Don sends his invite for the summer..."
Francesco narrowed his eyes "What about the new Don son? What about the new one? Do you expect me there or you invite me?"
Vincenzo sat up straight and took a deep breath "I need you father in my life..."
Francesco asked sharply "Answer the question Vincenzo. There is a difference between inviting and expecting. Which one is it you demand? The old Don has no authority now while he is mentoring you and showing you all he knows. He doesn't have the strength to lead and be everywhere. You do. You are the new Don. Tell me truthfully. What is it you want from me now? Expectation or invitation to be there in Sicily?"
Vincenzo smiled "I never wanted you to come to Sicily. You know that father. I asked you not to come because I felt the old Don may have pulled some strings to keep you... They say grandpa Paulo is his favourite. He wants you at home. I am told he wants you to mend bridges..."
Francesco said "Vincenzo. What do you really want to happen?"
Vincenzo said " I want you at peace where you feel peace. I want you to stay at your home in New York. I tried to postpone it as far as I could. One day you have to come. The locals, neighbours and allies want to see your approval. They will become restless if you dont come and may feel you are opposing the arrangement."
Francesco smiled back "I would oppose the arrangement. Why would I want my son immersed into a life that is chosen for him ever since birth by those who never took one step for him in life? They have no right to choose your path. Only you do Vincenzo..."
Vincenzo said " I chose willingly...They will not rest until they do get you on my side in Sicily and to get you to admit you approve of them while you swear your allegiance. The summer time is the latest I could push it. Maybe it is time for peace."
Francesco wanted to laugh. Vincenzo had no idea what he was asking by telling him coming to Sicily was a good idea for making peace. Vincenzo had no idea what it was like for him to look into the eyes of Paulo Rosario and see all the pain he had unleashed on him, his brother and his mother. Paulo had denied love to his family when it counted. Now that he was no longer aggressive but still the same man, nothing had changed.
Francesco said "I can come to Sicily. You know I can. You are the one trying to block and delay the security checks so I dont board a plane to Sicily. You are the one buying me time until the summer to get me to calm down son. But your attempts are futile. I will never approve of those people. I will tell those people and their allies that I have no respect for them. I will tell them, I have no loyalty to them. I have more loyalty to certain strangers who showed me love that they denied me. So you better keep the airport security checks blocked for me so I dont show up. When I do, I wont hold back."
Vincenzo said "Father. I will see you in Sicily during the summer. I will try to change your mind. You must make peace."
Francesco had heard enough and stood up " Watch your words son. You cant tell me what I must do. But I can. You must stop trying to buy time for me. I can come right now. I was busy two weeks ago. But I can come now... I can the go tell the old Don where to shove his invitations, expectations and so called love for family. I am sure as the new Don you will have to retaliate."
Vincenzo remained seated "No father. I dont have to do anything..."
Francesco said "Of course not. Your people will do it for you. You just give orders."
Vincenzo stood up "Its Christmas Eve. Lets not go there father."
Francesco said "Lets go there. Anyone who comes after my family is not going to be spared. What will you do if I take out my gun and shoot your grandpa at this allegiance gathering in the summer? Because he has come close to death now as close as he has ever been."
Vincenzo took a deep breath "Then I will have to make sure, you dont have a gun."
Francesco said "Thats what your great grandpa did years ago. He took my weapons. He forced me to have my wedding in Sicily. I had peace because of your mother. I could call my allies to oppose the old Don. But I did not want bloodshed because of your mother. You may succeed on taking my guns away and force peace down the throats of those around you.... But you may turn to the mirror one day and see yourself torn. Would the love of a woman be enough for you to stop you from murdering those who have betrayed you? Would the love of the woman be enough to stop you kill your family for their sins? I let your uncle Angelo live at peace. I allowed my Sicilian family live at peace. I chose peace. I compromised with family even though I dont allow the same luxury for others... But I do not know if you will choose peace or war. The old Don is thinking they have claimed victory by having you on his side. What he doesn't know you are more deadly than I am. He doesn't know you are less forgiving. He doesn't know you are more powerful than all his sons combined..."
Vincenzo said "Father. I am not even like you yet... I am not that powerful."
Francesco said " I raised you. I know you better than yourself. You are more dangerous than anyone I know Vincenzo... I have never been known to be forgiving. I have been brutal. Always have been. But the love of a woman that is your mother is the only thing that could ever stop me from hurting the last of those I want harmed. My family must pay but I never could bring myself to do it. All because of your mother. I am not sure if it would be the case fo you. Will the love of your woman ever stop you from killing those you want dead badly enough?"
Vincenzo was absorbing his father's words. He remained silent staring at his father thoughtfully.
Francesco said "But as you said, we need to have peace. lets go."
Vincenzo blocked his father's path "What I want badly enough is the truth father. I want the truth from you and no one else. I want you to tell me what happened in the past that made you cut off ties with your family in Sicily. When I ask you the answer is the same... You emphasise that you will tell me when the time is right.... And you forbid me from digging for the truth because it distracts me from protecting those I love."
Francesco said "It is still the same answer that you will get... You have so much to learn yet son. You are only a teenager. Focus on what is important. Focus on protecting those you love. Truth will reveal itself when you need it. Dont look for the truth. Wait for it to come. Right now. You must battle for claiming your territory in life to rule it and own it so no one can invade it while others will fight for dominance. I have taught you enough to survive and be territorial as hard as you can. Others will be battling for their survival to get dominance when you battle to keep your territory safe." He then put his hands on his shoulders and kissed his son's forehead as he whispered "Its getting late. Family awaits... its Christmas Eve. We dont take our work home on Christmas Eve Vincenzo. I cant stand it if you break the rules of my household under my roof. Even thought your brother is now on his path to be fully in charge in your absence."
Vincenzo smiled and embraced his father. "I wont break your rules father. It Christmas Eve. Its time for family for days to come."
Francesco then lead his son away from the cafe secret rooms to the surface to get into cards to get home to Adele and his children. He knew from the day Vincenzo was born his life was going to be nothing like his. Vincenzo was sought after by many. He was an individual related to many powerful figures. His godfather was O'Neil of all people. He was a Rosario by blood from the lineage of the Don's favourite son. Francesco always knew Vincenzo was going to be a Don in Sicily who was destined to just multi task with his duties as his eldest son ruling his business empire in the US too. Vincenzo just was the leader of multi empires. He was the emperor of the Rosario territories. He was to be everywhere. Francesco had no doubt his son was unto the task. Francesco himself had similar business model. Costanzo, his brother and Antonio, his cousin ruled a fraction of his business under his watchful eyes and sent him reports. Vincenzo just had to do the same. Only Viggo was not like Costanzo. He was a born leader. Francesco could see his sons clash but he knew love of family could help them survive their differences.