Chapter 99. We We’re Young

I have known Riccardo for as long as I can remember. He was our family’s loyal protector, and he looked after us like we were his kin.

Growing up in the mafia world was never easy. There was always danger lurking around every corner, and it seemed like we were constantly surrounded by chaos. But somehow, Riccardo always managed to shield me from the worst of it.

I remember once when I was walking home late at night from my best friend’s house. I had barely made it halfway when a group of men emerged from an alleyway, blocking my path. For a moment, I thought that this was the end.

But then Riccardo appeared out of nowhere, brandishing his gun and ordering them to step aside. They may have been taller and stronger than him, but he radiated authority and fear with each word he spoke. Watching him take control of the situation was both frightening and awe-inspiring.

Another time, there was a rival gang who wanted to kidnap me as leverage against our family. When