Page 55 of The Seventh Circle
"Is there a problem with the arrangement?"
Alberti shifted uncomfortably. "There seems to have been some... confusion. We received a letter yesterday, on Benedetto family letterhead, instructing us to halt all transfers pending review."
My heart stuttered. "What letter? From whom?"
"It was signed by your cousin, Paolo Benedetto." He produced the document from his desk drawer. "He indicated he was acting on your father's authority."
I scanned the paper, recognizing Paolo's handwriting. The letterhead was genuine—which meant he'd used Father's private stationery.
"This is a misunderstanding," I said, fighting to keep my voice level. "My cousin has overstepped."
"Nevertheless, Signor Benedetto, we cannot proceed without clarity. The letter specifically mentions potential... irregularities in your recent banking activities."
The implied accusation hung in the air between us. I understood immediately what Paolo had done. By suggesting impropriety, he'd ensured the bank would freeze everythinguntil the matter was resolved—a process that would take weeks, if not months.
"I see." I folded the letter carefully, tucking it into my pocket. "Thank you for bringing this to my attention."
"Of course, if your father were to visit personally—"
"That won't be necessary," I cut him off. "I'll handle this within the family."
Outside, I leaned against the stone facade, struggling to regain my composure. Paolo had moved faster than I'd anticipated. The bank transfer was crucial to our plan—without those funds, we'd be starting in Milano with almost nothing.
I stopped at a café to collect my thoughts, ordering espresso I had no intention of drinking. As I stared at the bitter black liquid, a shadow fell across my table.
"Cousin." Paolo's voice carried that peculiar mix of warmth and steel that had always characterized our relationship. "What a pleasant surprise."
He sat without waiting for an invitation, signaling the waiter for coffee.
"I've just come from the bank," I said, watching his face for any reaction.
"Banking matters on such a beautiful morning?" He smiled blandly. "Your dedication to family business continues to impress Uncle Salvatore."
"Cut the performance, Paolo. I know what you did."
His expression didn't change, but something dangerous flickered in his eyes. "I've done many things lately, cousin. You'll need to be more specific."
"The letter to Alberti. Freezing my accounts."
Paolo accepted his coffee from the waiter before responding. "Ah, that. Simply a precautionary measure. Father mentioned you seemed distracted lately—worried you mightbe making impulsive decisions. I thought it prudent to ensure family assets remain properly managed."
"Those are my personal accounts."
"Are they?" He raised an eyebrow. "The properties were purchased with Benedetto family money. The monthly stipend that fills those accounts comes from family businesses." He leaned forward. "What exactly do you own that wasn't provided by Uncle Salvatore, Lorenzo?"
The question struck deeper than he knew. What did I possess that wasn't ultimately controlled by my father? Even my mother's villa, my one independent claim, existed because Father had permitted it.
"This isn't about money," Paolo continued, his voice deceptively gentle. "It's about responsibility. You've been... distracted. Making unusual inquiries. Disappearing for hours without explanation." He stirred his coffee methodically. "People are beginning to notice."
"What people?"
"The wrong ones." He sipped his coffee. "Luckily, I've been able to provide reasonable explanations. Pre-wedding nerves. Preparations for your increased role in the family. But eventually, Lorenzo, questions will require answers."
I studied my cousin's face, searching for what he truly knew. Paolo had always been difficult to read—his calculating mind hidden behind affable charm.
"The Vitelli girl is quite taken with you," he said, changing direction abruptly. "Don Vitelli mentioned her enthusiasm to Father just yesterday. They're hosting a family dinner this weekend and have specifically requested your presence."
"I have prior commitments."
