Looking at Luca, I say, “There’s only three months of training left, sir. May I have early leave to do the job, marry Tiana, and return to work?” Luca’s eyes search mine, then he nods. “Once you’ve succeeded in whatever task I have for you, you may leave St. Monarch’s.” He stands up, and closing the distance between us, he takes hold of my shoulder. “Don’t fail me.” “I won’t.” We look at each other for a moment, then he turns to Viktor. “I think we’re done here. Let’s go home to our wives.” “Mr. Cotroni,” I say to get his attention. “Thank you for settling this issue for us.” My eyes move to
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