Meanwhile, at the Corleone fortress, the usually quiet and empty halls were filled with noise and activity. The massive estate felt alive for the first time in months. Sunlight streamed through the tall windows as servants moved quickly, carrying trays of snacks or fresh flowers to replace wilted ones, while the scent of coffee and baked goods drifted from the kitchen.
Marco had four sons once, but tragedy had taken three... lost to old rivalries, accidents, or illnesses. Only the third son remained, married to Valentina, and he was the one carrying the family name forward now, though he spent more time on his mystery business trips than at home.
