Page 26 of Mafia Kings: Dario

Cat went red as a beet as the old woman walked over to the kitchen island where I was sitting.

Filomena gave Cat the evil eye, then turned to me.

Behind Filomena’s back, Cat made a face likeOh my GOD!and stifled a laugh with her hand.

I had to focus on Filomena so I wouldn’t burst out laughing, too.

The old woman scowled at me. “You are to accompany me to the patio at once.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

Filomena abruptly turned and started walking towards the doorway Valentino had exited.

Cat made another face like she couldn’t believe how much trouble she was in – but found it hilarious all the same.

I frowned and choked back a laugh at the same time as I hurried to follow Filomena.

Cat waved and silently mouthed,Come back later!

I nodded and mouthed,I will!

No matter how much trouble she might be, I liked Caterina immensely and decided I would come visit her again as soon as possible.

Once I caught up with Filomena, the old woman said in her thick Sicilian accent, “You shouldn’t associate with her. She’s a common, vulgar girl – and a tramp.”

“Mm,” I said noncommittally.

The old woman stopped and turned on me. “Is your mother alive?”

I turned pale at the question.

I didn’t want to answer… but I didn’t feel like I could stay silent.

“…no,” I finally said.

“When did she die?”

“When I was 12.”

Filomena’s entire demeanor changed, and her features turned from cross to sad.

She put her hand softly on my cheek.

The gesture was so loving… so motherly… that I felt tears well up unexpectedly in my eyes.

“Caterina is friendly, yes, but she is a bad influence,” the old woman said in a kindly voice. “Her behavior is not suitable for a young lady. Andyouare a good girl – I know it. Just as I know your mother would want to keep you safe from bad influences.”

I didn’t respond. I still liked Cat – nothing would change that – but the old woman’s tender concern was so touching, I didn’t want to argue with her.

The old woman took away her hand and sighed. “Bad enough you must stay in this house of murderers…”

The words were jarring.

Just a second ago we had been talking about my new friend –

And now we were talking about being surrounded by killers.

“Why do you stay here, then?” I asked, trying to be delicate.

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