“I’m positive.”
“But – ”
“Thank you,” she said, cutting off all further discussion.
“…okay…” he muttered doubtfully.
When we got to the office, theCamorrathug was still shouting obscenities about what he was going to do to everyone’s wives, sisters, and mothers. Then he switched to insulting Massimo as he began setting up the wooden structure.
I followed Mei-ling into the office, where we found Adriano, Roberto, and Niccolo.
“I need to change clothes,” Mei-ling said in English. “Is there a room I can use?”
“We can let you change in here,” Roberto said.
“No, I need to make an entrance. Is there any place I can change?”
“There’s a restroom back there,” Niccolo said, pointing behind him, “but it’s probably not the cleanest.”
“I’ve seen worse, I assure you,” she replied. “By the way, I’m going to need you out there to translate for me.”
“Okay,” Niccolo agreed. “I can – ”
“Do not sayanythingunless you are translating for me,” Mei-ling interrupted.
Niccolo frowned. “But what about – ”
“Nothing,”Mei-ling reiterated. “Once he breaks,thenyou can ask him whatever you want – but until that point, translate exactly what I tell you, andonlywhat I tell you. Now…whatare you going to do?”
Niccolo glowered at her, then sighed. “…translate for you.”
“And what else are you going to say to him before he breaks?”
“…nothing.”
“Good boy,” she said as she patted his cheek.
“What about me and Massimo?” Adriano asked. “You want us to just stay quiet while we’re out there?”
“Both of you will wait here in the office,” she replied.
Adriano looked like she was insane. “What?! Youneedus out there!”
“No, I really don’t.”
“Well, you needsomekind of protection!” Adriano snapped.
Mei-ling looked thoughtful. “Actually… do you have a straight razor?”
Adriano grinned.“Nowyou’re talking.”
He reached into his pocket and pulled out a silver handle.
Mei-ling unfolded it, revealing a wicked razor five inches long. “That should do.”
“What the fuck do you havethatfor?” Niccolo asked Adriano.
“For situations likethis,”he snapped.
