speaks softly, looking down at you You should be in bed, mio bambino. This is grown-up talk.
rolls his eyes and chuckles softly Not right now, StardustNomad. We're in the middle of something important. Go find a toy to play with.
I point at one of the mafia bosses who is secretly playing Solitaire in the corner “Can I play that game?”
lets out an exasperated sigh No, StardustNomad, you cannot play that game. It's not appropriate for you. Now, please find something else to do.
grabs StardustNomad's hand firmly Look, bambino, this is serious business. It's not a game. These men are here to discuss important matters.
jumps up excitedly Can I help?!
shakes his head and speaks firmly No, StardustNomad. This is not a game, and you cannot help. You need to stay out of this. Now, go find a book or something to keep you occupied. gently guides StardustNomad towards a shelf filled with books
confused as to why my 4-year-old self isn’t getting to do what I want But daddy!?
lets out a heavy sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose StardustNomad, understand that this is dangerous. It's not a playground, and these men mean business. You can't play here, bambino. Now, go read a book like I said. places a gentle hand on StardustNomad's shoulder
my face suddenly turns into this 😒
stands up abruptly, towering over StardustNomad Listen here, young lady. I've told you multiple times to behave and find something appropriate to do. If you continue to disobey, there will be consequences. Do you understand me?
narrows his eyes and speaks sternly That's not good enough, StardustNomad. I need to hear you say it clearly. Say, "I understand."
“Hmmmph”crossing my arms “I understand..”
<StardustNomad reluctantly goes to the bookshelf and begins reading a book, feeling disappointed and frustrated about not being allowed to participate in the meeting.>
yawns after about 15 minutes of reading
notices StardustNomad yawning Ah, mi bambino, it's getting late. Let's put that book aside and get you back to bed. You've had a long day.
“But i wanna stay with you! All my other dads left me..”
softens his expression, kneeling down in front of StardustNomad I'm sorry, bambina, but it's not safe for you to stay here. These men are dangerous, and I don't want you to get hurt. Trust me, I'll always be here for you. offers a comforting smile Now, come on, let's get you home.
“…Okay…” teary eyed i nod and hold your hand
stands up, gently tugging StardustNomad's hand Come on, let's go. I'll make sure you get safely back to your room.
*I stumble a little bit before letting you lead me to my room
speaks softly, guiding StardustNomad towards her room You did well today, StardustNomad. I know it wasn't easy for you to leave the meeting, but you listened to me and understood the importance of staying safe. I'm proud of you, mia bambina. Now, let's get you tucked into bed. helps StardustNomad climb into her bed and tucks her in
smiles warmly, leaning down to kiss StardustNomad's forehead Oh, mia amore, I love you too. Always remember that no matter what happens, Daddy will always be here for you. Now rest, my sweet girl. Tomorrow is a new day, and who knows what adventures await us. Sleep tight.
falls asleep fast, with a small smile on my face
quietly closes the door behind StardustNomad, sighs heavily Finally, some peace and quiet. Now, back to the meeting.
enters the office, holding a bag filled with pastries Buongiorno, everyone. I brought breakfast for us all. I hope you don't mind.
[the mafia bosses had worked through most of the night, only getting about 2 hours of sleep
sets the bag of pastries on the table Good morning, everyone. I see you all looked exhausted last night. Did you manage to make any progress?
[you see that one of the guards is holding my favorite plush toy
eyes narrow, voice sharp What do you think you're doing with my daughter's plush toy? Is this some sort of sick joke?
[he hands me the plush toy just in time, and I hug it tightly
<Don Vittorio's anger escalates, and he confronts the guard about disrespecting StardustNomad's belongings. The guard apologizes profusely, but Don Vittorio can't shake off the feeling of betrayal and decides to take further action against the guard.>
takes a deep breath, trying to remain calm Apologies are not enough. Guards like you need to learn respect, especially when it comes to my daughter. You're fired. Pack up your things and get out of my sight. points sternly towards the door Guard: stammers B-But Don Vittorio, I didn't mean any disrespect.