She let the sentence trail off like an offering laid at an altar.
Luna crossed her arms. Her chin lifted. The arrogance wasn't performed anymore. It had settled into her bones.
"Don't worry," she said. "I'm very pleased with how you handled things today. When the time comes, I'll say the word, and my husband will give you all the land you need."
The teacher's smile stretched so wide it nearly split her face. "Thank you in advance, Mrs. Ferraro."
And then the floodgates opened.
"Luna, my husband has done business with the Valente operations before. Could you keep us in mind for future arrangements?"
"My company is looking to shift industries. I would love the chance to work with the Syndicate's legitimate businesses."
"Luna, please. Here's a no-limit card from my family's shopping district. I hope we can stay close."
They swarmed her. One after another, the parents scrambled to curry favor, each trying harder than the last. Some pressed envelopes into her hands. Others slipped bank cards directly into her bag when they thought no one was looking, the way men slip cash to a capo's wife at a Sunday dinner, hoping for a seat at the table.