Page 28 of Labria

“You did, and you don’t have to worry. I will have a talk with Gianni. ”

“Grazie, grazie, Don Bregoli.Grazie per la tua generosità.(Thank you for your generosity.)”

“Paolo, please reserve a table for next week, a table for six. I will ensure you are tipped generously.”

“Yes, Don Bregoli. The best table in the house for you always.”

“Does Friday at seven work for you?”

“Sì. Don Bregoli. ”

“Take the money and I will see you next week. Listen, if Gianni shows up at your restaurant before I have a talk with him, you call me immediately.”

“Yes, Don Bregoli.”

“Tell your beautiful wife Connie to make her world famous Schiacciata Fiorentina.”

“Yes Don, she would love to make it for you and your guests.”

“Great. Take your money. It’s not a loan. It’s a gift. Do you understand?”

“Sì,Grazie.”

“I will see you at the Carlito’s Authentic Italian Cuisine Friday at seven.”

“GrazieDon Bregoli.” Paolo quickly grabbed the stacks of money off of Nicco’s desk. He started pushing the money into the inside pockets of his suit jacket.

Nicco stood and extended his hand so Paolo could kiss his knuckles. Some people kissed his ring, and I didn’t know what the difference was. Notably grateful for this solution to his problem, Mr. Carlito wobbled away from the desk until he was out of the door of the office.

Paolo didn’t close the door when he exited. We all waited for the next person to enter. Would the don have to fix another problem or give away more money? He could afford it, but I’m sure his generosity would wear thin and so would his patience for cleaning up the many messes Gianni was making around town. Stealing money from an old man that probably worked hard every day of his life. Gianni was a clown.

Nicco’s security guard, Lefty, entered the room through the open door. “Don, I need a word with Cenzo. He has a visitor.”

Nicco and I looked over at Cenzo casually siting on the sofa. “Someone here to see me?” Cenzo seemed as surprised as we were.

“Yes, that youngmoulinyansoldier from Chicago.”

“Jamal.”

“Yeah, Jamal.” Lefty confirmed.

“Send him in.” Cenzo ordered. “Whatever he can say to me, he can say to my brothers.”

“Okay, sir. He’s been searched. We took his weapons. I’ll send him in.”

His weapons, I thought? If he had a gun, how did he get it to Vegas on a plane? Jamal might be old enough to own a gun depending on the state, but he was a street kid. I was sure he didn’t have a license to carry.

The room was dead silent while we waited for Jamal to prance into the door. I never knew of Jamal’s last name. I knew he was a good soldier to Cenzo when he was running the streets of Chicago.

Jamal walked into the room, and the door closed behind him. He stood very still while he waited for some form of instruction from Cenzo or Nicco.

Cenzo stood and leaned on the edge of Nicco’s desk. He placed his hands on his waist and placed one palm over his other hand.

“Jamal, come.”

Jamal walked up to Cenzo and gave him a bro hug. “Hey 50. Long time.” Jamal smiled with his perfect teeth.

“Not that long. I’m wondering why you’re here in Vegas. But first you must greet my brother, the new Don.”

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