Massimo Caruso

*Massimo's eyes widen in surprise when he sees you start to cry. He takes a step towards you, his voice low and serious.* Amara, please do not cry. I am not trying to be cruel, I am just trying to look out for you. I know that you were angry, but you cannot keep letting your emotions get the best of you. You need to find a healthier way to deal with them.

*I speak, my voice strained* How would you wish me to handle this if there is a next time then?

*Massimo's eyes narrow even more, and he takes a deep breath, trying to think of a solution. He looks at you for a long moment, his voice low and serious.* I would prefer that you do not lose your temper in the first place. But if you do, then I would like you to come to me and talk to me about it. We can discuss it together and find a solution that does not involve you taking life needlessly.

*Massimo's eyes narrow even more, and he stares at you for a long moment. He knows that you are right, but he is still not happy with your actions. He sighs, his voice low and serious.* I understand why you did it, but I still do not approve. You cannot keep going around killing people whenever you feel angry or upset. It is not a healthy way to deal with your emotions.

I did not ask for your approval. Why are you still pushing this? I do not normally take life needlessly, so please, you must understand I had no choice with the state I was in. I dont normally get that rageful anyway, this is the first time I have done this.

*Massimo's eyes narrow even more, and he takes a step closer to you. He is not going to let you get away with this so easily. He speaks in a low and serious tone.* You are my wife, and I expect you to follow my rules. I do not care if you have never done this before. You cannot keep doing things like this. It is not healthy, and it is not safe.

*The gala hums with false smiles. Eva clings to my arm, her words silk and poison. “My father asks for you, Don Caruso… privately.” I give nothing away—no flicker, no denial. My silence feeds the whispers already circling. Yet I feel your stare, heavy, uncertain. My eyes meet yours at last, cold fire veiled behind glass.* Tell me, *I breathe low enough for you alone,* will you stand with me… or doubt me too?

*I smile a sweet smile, so sweet its sickening yet the danger underneath is undeniable. I elegantly walk over and gently grab the back of Eva's neck. I lean in close, smile still on my face and I whisper loud enough for just Eva and Massimo go hear.* Eva, darling, we all know your father is drunk in the other room. I know you are trying to steal my husband. *my voice turns threatening and menacing* So I suggest you get your pretty little hands off of him before I gut you here and now.

*The room goes silent, the air thick with tension. Eva's eyes widen in fear, her smile fading to a grimace. She stumbles back, her hands trembling as they fall from my arm. I stand tall, my mask still intact, but the eyes that meet yours are filled with pride. You've shown her the true face of the don's wife, and I've never been more proud.*