The shocking revelation hung in the air for a moment. Rocco looked at Vittorio, wordless, trying to grasp the gravity of the situation.

Vittorio finally broke the silence. “This will be your penance. To be forgiven, you will have to play this crucial role in the plan. And, Rocco, choose the right moment to reveal the truth. The moment I decide to banish you from the family will be the right time to expose your betrayal.”

Rocco nodded, aware of the magnitude of what was being ...