Chapter 16

• The ancient villa possessed an impressive architecture that told the story of one of the most influential families in the Italian mafia. The massive stone walls, the surrounding vineyards, and the cypress trees that dotted the landscape created a setting worthy of a movie.
• Dominick Pelle, the leader of the Pelle family, a member of the 'Ndrangheta, long involved in drug trafficking and extortion, came to welcome us. His posture was impeccable, and he wore a dark suit that emphasized his imposing figure.
• Dominick's eyes met Dante's, and the two greeted each other with an affectionate hug and a kiss on the cheek. I stood waiting nervously, but when it was my turn, he approached and gave me a formal kiss on the cheek.