CHAPTER 106 - THE STRENGTH OF A WOMAN

A month had passed, and since I hadn't changed my mind, we headed to France for my appointment as Capo. I was fully recovered.

"Are you sure about this?" my father asked, still expressing doubt about my decision.

"Absolutely," I replied with determination.

"And what about Dom?"

"He doesn't agree, but he loves me enough to respect this decision."

We took the stage for the appointment ceremony, which proceeded surprisingly with applause from everyone, including my father. Thanks to my training and reputation, I had earned respect and admiration from all. There I was, the first woman to become Capo in history, determined to change many norms, starting with our mafia.

"I thank everyone for the support and acceptance. I acknowledge the difficult eras we've gone through... I want to make it clear that under my leadership, many changes will occur. Forced training and marriages for convenience will no longer be tolerated, unless there is mutual consent, and never under parental coercion of their children. This rule will apply equally to men and women!"

Emotional applause filled the room, especially from the youth who understood the significance of this change: a farewell to the tortures imposed by their own parents.

Naturally, there were some older members who didn't receive the changes well, murmuring their discontent.

Dom took the stage, standing by my side. He placed his hands on my back, caressing them before speaking into the microphone.

"As everyone is aware, Capo Davina is my wife, and that stands above any alliance. With that said, her reforms in the laws will extend to all Mafias. Any disobedience will result in the traditional punishments of torture and death, as everyone is accustomed to."

No more words were needed. The hall fell silent immediately.

After the guests' congratulations, we concluded the celebration.

Even though he had come to support me, I know well that my choice is not to his liking. Since our last night together, he has been acting strangely.

The days flew by, and I spent more time in France getting accustomed to the position, receiving training for the role, while also cherishing the last days of my father's life.

Dom remained in England, overseeing the local mafia... We talked every night, although I noticed a hint of indifference in him.

Unfortunately, Bruce fell ill after a little over a month, and we grew much closer after all that had happened. We shared good moments together, and whenever I have the chance, I take a break from business to visit his room. We were all in the room when the doctor entered.

"Mrs. Capô, I'm sorry to inform you, but... it's time."

Mom cried desperately; we knew this moment would come, but we hoped it would take a bit longer... Maybe just a little bit longer?! We had already lost so much. I took a deep breath, smiled as I looked at her, and embraced her.

"Mom, it's okay... His pain is over, both the physical and emotional suffering. We were blessed to have him back for this time. He's leaving as the father and husband he once was."

"You're right, my daughter. The man I love returned and now he's departing peacefully... I couldn't wish for anything more."

I nodded and approached the bed.

"Dad, go in peace... Take care of Angel for us, play with her wherever you both are, and never forget: We love you both. Thank you for everything. Your battle has ended!"

I caressed his head, kissed the top of it, and gestured to the doctor to turn off the machines... And so he passed away, as swiftly as he had come back to us.

Yara stood by our side during my father's burial. However, Adam couldn't attend, which struck me as odd... I knew he wouldn't leave me hanging. Even though he didn't explain what was happening, I could sense that something was different.

15 Days Later

I tried calling Adam, but his line was constantly busy. Frustration mounts as I reflect on the direction our relationship has taken. Though we were aware of our busy lives and the challenges posed by the distance, I held onto hope that we wouldn't lose each other along the way.

KNOCK KNOCK

A knock at the door interrupts my thoughts.

"Come in."

"Sorry to disturb, Capô. However, the captive is refusing to comply with our attempts at control. He claims his family is his business and no woman should interfere. His words, ma'am."

"Great, another jerk to put in his place."

I head to the warehouse and there I find the man who had been abusing his wife and daughter. The same man who had tried to offer his daughter as payment for debts, revealing his utter lack of character.

"Well, well, well. What do we have here? You know, I gave you a chance to make amends. I believe everyone makes mistakes now and then. As the Capô, I might have been less cruel. Perhaps just castrated you to learn how to respect women, to understand that no woman is a bargaining chip. But you made it complicated, didn't you?"

"You bitch, let me go!"

"You dare challenge me? Very well, you will be an example of what happens when someone disrespects the laws I've established. When they choose to ignore my authority, there are consequences."

I smile as I speak these words.

"Take him to the courtyard. Gather all the subchiefs of the families. It's time to show what happens when someone thinks they're above me and my rules."

"Yes, Capô!"

Half an hour later, all my loyal followers are assembled in the courtyard. Leon is kneeling beside me, wounded and elevated on an improvised stage.

"Gentlemen, it's a pleasure to have you here. Today, I will have the opportunity to demonstrate to all of you the gravity of ignoring the new rules we've established."

I pause, all eyes are on me: admiration, anger, and fear.

Though I despised the role of a killer and torturer, I knew this moment would come and that I would need to act. If the lesson was necessary to reaffirm my dominance, I wouldn't hesitate to apply it.

"This is Leon. Many of you know him, and well... you know he's worthless. Leon had the brilliant idea of selling his own daughter to pay off his debts. With his stupidity, he disregarded the change in laws and the fact that I don't tolerate disorder. We're aware of everything that's happening. Furthermore, we've found out that he's been abusing his wife. So, it's clear that Mr. Leon has forgotten the new rules. As a compassionate Capô, I'll refresh his memory."

I pick up a sword and grip it firmly.

"This is so you'll never dare to touch a woman again."

And with that, I cut off his hands.