Chapter 9 - THE BROTHER WHO WANTED THE THRONE
Matteo Rossi was arrested six months after Alessandro was shot.
The charges involved conspiracy, financial fraud, and offenses connected to the attack.
Vanessa was also charged in connection with the financial scheme.
Both denied wrongdoing.
The investigation revealed a complicated network of shell companies and falsified contracts.
Matteo had been attempting to shift control of key Rossi businesses.
Vanessa's family firm stood to benefit.
The shooting had occurred shortly before Alessandro planned to review the transactions.
Prosecutors alleged that Matteo had provided information about Alessandro's movements.
The case attracted national attention.
Alessandro didn't celebrate.
When I asked why, he looked at me.
“Because he's my brother.”
I nodded.
“That doesn't erase what happened.”
“I know.”
He looked exhausted.
“I just wish it had been different.”
I sat beside him.
“You can grieve the brother you thought you had.”
He looked at me.
“And still hold him accountable?”
“Yes.”
The criminal proceedings continued for months.
Witnesses testified.
Financial records were examined.
Defense attorneys challenged the evidence.
The process was slow and painful.
Eventually, Matteo entered a negotiated guilty plea to several offenses, including conduct connected to the conspiracy against Alessandro.
Vanessa's case concluded separately, with consequences based on the evidence against her.
After the proceedings, Alessandro stood outside the courthouse.
Reporters shouted questions.
He ignored them.
Then looked at me.
“Can we go somewhere quiet?”
I nodded.
“Of course.”
We drove to the lake.
Sat on a bench.
And watched the water.
After a long silence, Alessandro whispered, “I thought being powerful meant nobody could hurt me.”
I looked at him.
“And now?”
He smiled sadly.
“Now I know it just means people hide their knives better.”
I took his hand.
“You don't have to live that way forever.”
May you like
He looked at me.
For the first time, he seemed to believe it.
