We show everyone what that mistake costs,Sophia agrees, but her tone is different.
More shrewd.
We make an example that consolidates our power.
We respond proportionally,Matteo’s voice cuts in.Don’t give the other families an excuse to unite against us.
I’m going to destroy the Calabreses. But I’m not sure how I plan on doing so yet. But I will.
“I want them gone,” I say quietly, and my voice carries a certainty that surprises even me. “Not just Dominic. All of them. The entire fucking family.”
Matteo studies my face carefully. “That’s a war, Bianca. A real war. Against a family that still has resources, allies, and connections.”
“Good.” The word comes out flat and cold. “I want them to know it’s a war. I want everyone to know what happens when someone tries to manipulate and murder a DeLuca.”
Yes,Giuseppe roars in approval.Let them all see what we’re capable of.
But do it smart,Sophia whispers.Make it look like justice, not revenge.
And protect what matters,Matteo’s voice adds.Don’t let anger make you reckless.
“I’m not angry,” I tell Matteo, and I realize it’s true. The rage is still there, burning just as bright, but it’s not controlling me anymore. It’sfuelingme. “I’m focused.”
Matteo’s eyes lock onto mine and something passes between us—an understanding that goes deeper than words.
He sees what I’ve become, what I’m choosing to become, and for the first time since learning the truth about Giuseppe, I see approval in his eyes rather than worry.
“What do you need?” he asks simply.
The question sends a thrill through me because it means he’s not going to try to stop me. He’s going tohelpme.
Intelligence first,Matteo’s voice suggests.Know your enemies before you strike.
Allies second,Sophia adds.Make sure the other families see this as justice.
Then overwhelming force,Giuseppe finishes.Leave nothing but ashes.
“I need to know everything,” I say, my mind already working through the logistics. “Every Calabrese asset, every ally, every weakness. I need to know who they owe money to, who owes them favors, where they keep their cash, who their children go to school with.”
Matteo nods. “That can be arranged.”
“I need the other families to understand that this isn’t random violence. This is justice for a direct attack on DeLuca leadership during an official trial.” My voice is getting stronger, more certain with each word as I try to catch up with my brain. “They need to see that we’re not just dangerous—we’rerighteous.”
“Also manageable,” he agrees.
Yeah, that too.
“And I need them all to understand that anyone who stands with the Calabreses, anyone who helps them or protects them or even fails to condemn what they did—they’ll be next.”
The promise in my voice makes even Matteo pause.
But when he meets my eyes again, I see something that might be pride.
“How long do I have to plan this?” I ask, my fingers tapping against the thin, scratchy hospital blanket.
“As long as you need,” he says. “But not too long. The other families are already talking, trying to figure out what happened and what it means for the balance of power. If we wait too long, they’ll start making their own alliances.”
Strike while they’re confused,Giuseppe demands.Before they can organize.
