Wind and snow howled into the foyer. The two soldiers posted at the entrance stiffened but did not move. They knew better than to interfere when the Don's voice carried that pitch.
Domenico hurled my bag into the snowdrift outside and jabbed a finger toward the darkness beyond the threshold.
"Giuliana, since you love putting on this little act so much, then get the hell out of this house! Don't ever come back!"
"I'd love to see how long a woman with no family, no name, and no protection survives in this blizzard without me!"
I stood in the doorway wearing nothing but a thin cashmere sweater.
The wind cut across my face like a blade.
I looked at the bag lying in the snow. Without a moment's hesitation, I stepped over the threshold.
One step after another, I walked into the storm. I never looked back.
Domenico stood inside, watching me go. Then he slammed the door shut.
The heavy thud echoed through the snowy night.
I trudged into the snow, bent down, and picked up the duffel bag. I brushed the powder off its surface. My fingers found the bare space on my right ring finger and pressed there, briefly, before letting go.
My phone screen lit up.
It was a voice call from my brother, Russo Valente.
"Giuliana, the Valente Family convoy has entered the Capital. Half an hour, and I'll be there to take you home."
