Prologue

My feet touch the soil of Cyprus, the smooth soles of my leather shoes too hot and confining. The last time I walked this path, I groused about family responsibilities, about not wanting to waste more time than necessary with my father before flying home.

Now Armand Gallo is dead and I rule in my father's wake, a responsibility I never wanted. One that doesn't suit me, but I bear it all the same.

Now, I bury my father a second time.

I'll sit in his chair. Talk to his capos. Pretend to enjoy sitting in a shadow grown larger than I can possibly encompass.

I am Raphel Gallo, and I am the head of the Gallo empire, one of the largest mafias in the world.

One of the most powerful men.

And I am nothing without her by my side.