Emilio's POV
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I tucked my hand in my pockets as I watched her go after her pointless tirade.
Anne...
The girl always fascinated me.
And that was something, considering that I didn't let any girl get under my skin.
Padrè (Father) always said, 'Women are distractions when taken seriously. But great pleasure when taken lightly. Use your head'.
And I've always done so.
My father wasn't your average father. He wasn't caring, or loving, although he tried to show me that he loved me in his own way. His major concern was the Mafia, where he was the Don. Always busy. Recording kills. Collecting debts. And it was inevitable; papà made it clear that he expected me to follow in his footsteps. And personally, I looked forward to that day.
My mother, on the other hand was the opposite of loving. All she cared for was money and titles and fashion. And over the years, I merely see her as a presence in the house, and she seems to like it that way. My mother figure was my nanny back at home, Prudence. She was the pure epitome of what a mother should look like.
My early life had been quite difficult, with series of trainings here and there, because, as papà says, the life of a don is unpredictable.
And I loved it like that.
Earlier this year, I'd requested for a one year leave from papà, to live a free life for a short while.
That's how I found myself here in Dellany High, and seatmate to the most intriguing girl I've ever met.
Forget that she always looks for ways make some noise.
I know that there's something wrong with her somewhere. I've noticed that she's always hungry, or exhausted, or tired or dull. She misses classes, although she's pretty bright, and she comes to school late.
And now, to my list of Anne's Mysteries, I add that she always gets touchy on personal subjects.
Which got me wondering.
If there's anything that's my priority right now, it's uncovering her secrets.
I ran my fingers through my hair and looked between the restaurant and the car.
I've just lost my appetite. I'll order Italian when I get home.
I got into the car.
"Festus, straight home," I said to the driver.
"Sì, signore (Yes, sir)," he replied.