Only then did Dominic finally let go of Daniela's hand and walk over to his grandfather's side to help him welcome the important guests: allied family heads, old-world associates from Sicily, a federal judge who owed the Family three favors.
"Why didn't Seraphina come with you?"
Faced with his grandfather's pointed question, Dominic's lips pressed into a thin line. The old man's voice was quiet, but in this family, quiet was where the danger lived. For once, Dominic actually defended Seraphina.
"Sorry, Grandpa. Seraphina's been busy these past few days preparing your birthday gift. She's been exhausted, so I told her to rest and come a bit later."
Salvatore studied his grandson's face for a moment longer than was comfortable, then turned to greet the next guest without a word.
Two hours passed quickly.
The Patriarch's Feast had reached its final and most anticipated segment: the gift-giving ceremony, where every family member and allied house presented their tributes to the old Don.
But Seraphina still hadn't shown up.