The entire room went quiet for a split second. The Sinatra record between tracks. The clink of silverware stopping at three separate tables. A stillness that in any Family-friendly place meant someone important was watching.
Adriana's expression changed just as quickly.
Her face turned pale, her eyes widening in exaggerated shock.
"Oh no!" she gasped, covering her mouth. "I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to! Sweetheart, are you okay?"
Salvatore was already on his feet.
He rushed over, apologizing repeatedly to the child's parents, his tone urgent and sincere. Without hesitation, he pulled out his phone and transferred money, trying to smooth things over as quickly as possible. The Don handling civilians. Keeping the peace in a public venue where the Family name floated above every transaction like cigar smoke.
But then the little boy suddenly pointed straight at me.
"It was her!" he cried between sobs. "She grabbed that lady's hand and made her hit me! She should say sorry!"
Every gaze in the restaurant shifted.
All at once.