Chapter 5 - THE MAN BEHIND THE SMILE
Luca Pascale began visiting more often.
Too often.
He appeared during therapy sessions.
Asked about Massimo's progress.
Questioned whether the rehabilitation was worth the expense.
And repeatedly suggested that Massimo should transfer his business responsibilities to him permanently.
One afternoon, Luca found me in the hallway.
“Elena.”
I stopped.
“Yes?”
He smiled.
“How's my brother?”
“His medical information is private.”
Luca laughed.
“I'm family.”
“And I'm bound by professional confidentiality.”
His smile faded.
“You're very protective.”
“I'm professional.”
He stepped closer.
“Be careful.”
I stared.
“Excuse me?”
“Massimo gets attached to people who make him feel hopeful.”
I said nothing.
Luca continued.
“When they disappoint him, he doesn't handle it well.”
I looked directly at him.
“Then it's fortunate I don't make promises I can't keep.”
His expression hardened.
Then he walked away.
That evening, I told Massimo what happened.
He listened.
His jaw tightened.
“Did he threaten you?”
“Not directly.”
Massimo reached for his phone.
I stopped him.
“Don't.”
He looked up.
“Why?”
“Because I don't need you to start a family war over a conversation.”
His eyes narrowed.
“Elena—”
“I need you to respect my ability to handle my own life.”
Silence.
Then Massimo slowly put down the phone.
“Fine.”
I nodded.
“Thank you.”
He studied me.
Then smiled faintly.
“You really aren't afraid of me.”
I considered that.
“I'm afraid of what people with power can do.”
May you like
His smile disappeared.
“But I'm not going to let fear make my decisions.”
