I stood up and walked towards the window overlooking the city--my city, taking in the breathtaking view of the sprawling skyline. As I gazed out, I couldn't help but wonder what kind of person the granddaughter of an ex consigliere and daughter of a traitor grew up to be.

Could she be cunning, like her family members before her, with a natural talent for manipulation and deceit running through her veins? Or could she be innocent, unaware of her family's dark history, and simply navigating the world with genuine intentions--oblivious to the expectations placed upon her, and possessing an untainted heart?

Most definitely the latter.

Hector talked about her like she was a saint, praising her kindness, compassion, and selflessness. Admired her unwavering dedication to helping others and her ability to bring out the best in people.

"He even believed that she is their good karma--has the power to bring positive energy and blessings to those around her. And her music brought this power to life, touching the hearts of her listeners, spreading joy and uplifting everyone who listened to her soulful melodies."

"Don't tell me you believe in that kind of stuff," Andreas said mockingly.

"Do you honestly think someone like me would believe in such nonsensical concepts?" I drawled in a low, sarcastic tone, "I'm a man of reason, grounded in the tangible world. How could mere music have such a profound impact on people's emotions and well-being, huh? I'm far too logical and rational to entertain any whimsical ideas that don't fit within my busy and narrow worldview." I turned to look at Andreas who was still glued to the card he was holding.

"They say that music has the power to touch the deepest parts of our souls, evoking feelings, emotions, and memories that words alone cannot express. But you don't do emotions, so I highly doubt that music would have any effect on you." He said with a grin.

"That's true," I said. I stared back at the window and put my hands in my pocket, deep in thought. "Still, I couldn't resist being curious. Hector is a realist. Even though she is his own blood, his granddaughter, he wouldn't think that highly of her. Even dared to come to me and propose a business deal if it's not worth all the trouble."

"So, you're considering it? Getting married?" I could sense Andreas' worry as he spoke. It was like he was concerned that this possible mission would distract me from my main focus and goals in life.

Like that would happen.

"I'm curious." That's all I could say. And whenever I say something, it's always either the real truth or a carefully twisted version of it, depending on how much I want the other person to know.

But when it comes to Andreas, my own consigliere, it's always the real truth.

"I want to see if her talent is worth every damn trouble her grandfather went through to protect her and keep her safe." I didn't wait for Andreas' response, or whatever lecture he was about to give me.

I simply walked out of the study and headed towards the school where I knew I would find her.

Amelia Cordelia Astoria.

I couldn't help but feel a mix of curiosity and anticipation, eager to witness firsthand the talent her grandfather defended so fiercely.

* * * * * *

"Three days in a row? Wow, for a Mafia boss, you sure have a lot of spare time." My peace was disrupted by the amused and mocking tone of the person I least expected to be here.

I sat up straight and opened my eyes. I turned my attention towards the source of the voice, only to find my right hand, Penelope, towering over me with arms crossed, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. "Well, well, well," she teased, "enjoying a little vacation from the criminal underworld, boss?"

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