Realistic or Modern &nbsp; Tempted by Nightlife

tags

The day turned into evening and while the sun was still a bit up when Sandro walked into his bedroom and headed straight for the shower, it was already dark when he came up, towel wrapped around his waist. This evening was way different than any other before. Possibly the most important evening for him as the Don of the Morello family. With a thoughtful expression, Sandro walked to the window, got himself a glass of bourbon and looked outside from the window that was overseeing the view of the whole casino district, at least half of which he owned.

“I have literally nothing to wear. You really couldn’t tell me sooner, Alessandro, could you? But nah, this is typical you, sabotaging me. You wanted me to look like a loser tonight, isn’t it right?”

That nagging voice. The one that was tearing his eardrums at least once a day. Closing his eyes for a second, taking a deep breath, repeating to himself he couldn’t shoot her right between those sparkling hazel eyes of hers, Sandro turned around, wearing the fakest smile of them all, and looked at his wife. “Laura, darling, you have a full closet of clothes. And even if you didn’t, you have known for the past week. So shut your mouth, get dressed and I will be waiting for you downstairs exactly twenty minutes after I leave this room. If you’re not there, I’m leaving without you and you can choke yourself on that expensive-ass prosecco you’re always pouring down your throat and you can do it here and alone. Are we clear?” Sandro spoke and downed his drink in one swift move, setting the glass back on the tray harder than he meant to.

His wife was going to be his demise and he knew it. She was a horrible woman. A political marriage. No feelings, no emotions. All she cared about were money and wealth. And the fact that they were supposed to have children? Neither of them seemed to care. Sandro’s mother kept reminding him but this marriage was at the stage where Sandro would rather leave the country. And Laura too, for that matter.

With a heavy sigh, the Don entered his closet and got dressed. Wearing one of his best three-piece suits, he left the bedroom, not sparing Laura one extra look. He also needed to find his siblings. Knowing Leo and Mimi, they were going to need extra instructions. How on earth did father handle all of this? Or did the younger Morello’s have greater respect for the old man? Sandro wished he had known but there was no time to ponder over could have beens. He really needed to find the other two and make sure they were going to be on their best behavior.

Once he had his family collected, Sandro looked at Leo and then at Mariah. “I hope I really don’t have to tell you I expect no troubles tonight, right?” he spoke to them, hands tucked in his pockets. Gazing at them, it reminded him of a father scolding his kids and trust him when he said he sometimes felt like that. Laura was still not here so they had a moment to spare. “Tonight is important and if any of you fuck it up, I will fuck your asses up and believe me when I say you won’t walk away from that. This is not just some random happy hippo party you love to attend. Are we clear?” Sandro asked, hoping he didn’t have to say more.

“Giulia!” he called out at one of the maids passing by. “Get me Marco. We’re leaving in a few.” he asked her and with a quick nod and “right away, sir”, she disappeared to go and get Sandro’s Underboss. “And where the fuck is that damned woman!” Sandro called, standing under the stairs, impatiently awaiting the redheaded harpy he had been forced to marry.

code by g o l d i e l o x x

apolla · Dec 26, 2020

mood :

annoyed

location :

home

outfit :

tags :

Leo; Sandro (

Morello

;; Mariah

Mariah sat at her vanity, calmly dragging the brush through her hair as she silently counted in her mind. Seventy-two, seventy-three, seventy-four... She had started the habit of counting how many times she ran the brush through her hair when she was younger, and had never really been able to break the habit. She always made sure she counted to a hundred, no matter how long it took or who was waiting on her. And someone was definitely waiting on her tonight, she was sure. More than one someone, though only one of them would be uptight about the time. Mariah wasn't even dressed yet. Her silver accented black floor length gown currently lay on her bed, the youngest Morello child wearing nothing but her undergarments as she brushed her hair.

She thought she heard voices down the hall, probably belonging to Laura and Sandro, but Mimi wasn't focused on them. They were always going at it like cats and dogs, and frankly, Mimi had learned how to tune them out a long time ago. They obviously didn't love one another, so the reason for the marriage was beyond Mimi. Maybe she didn't understand because she would never have to marry for the family-- or at least, she hoped. Despite her bitchy outer appearance and attitude, she was quite a romantic, and believed in true love. She also believed she'd already met her one true love in this life.

But he was gone now.

Her lower lip quivered at the thought of him, but she quickly shoved his face from her mind. "One hundred." She muttered, setting the brush down as she looked at the soft waves in her dark hair. With a soft sigh, she turned on her seat, staring at the dress. What was the point in getting dressed up like this? From what she understood, this was a fancy smancey dinner party of sorts at one of the Morello casinos, but the Morellos weren't the only ones who would be there. Ugh. Why they had to share an evening with the Salvatore's was beyond her, but again, it wasn't her place to question. Just to wear the dress, and show up.

Pushing herself to her feet, she'd just crossed to the bed when her door flew open. With a gasp, she turned to spot Leo standing in her doorway. "Jesus, Mimi, you're supposed to be dressed by now!" He groaned, his hand flying up to cover his hands. "I was just coming to tell you it's time to go. Sheesh. Warn someone next time." He blindly fumbled for the doorknob, finding it and then slamming the door shut. "The door being shut might have been warning enough, dumbass!" She yelled back, snatching the dress from the bed. With an annoyed huff, she unzipped the dress and then pulled it on.

After managing to zip up the back, she turned to the mirror and fluffed her hair. After she donned her accessories, she reached for her lip gloss and plumped her lips with it. She caught sight of her black acrylic nails in the mirror and she smirked, knowing how Sandro hated it when her nails were black. Dropping her lip gloss in her clutch, she slipped her feet into her heels and fastened them both before making her way downstairs. Turns out she wasn't the last one they were waiting on at all. She'd just reached the bottom floor when Sandro started in on his lecturing, and Mimi just fixed him with a flat glare.

"It's not me you have to worry about." She turned her gaze to Leo, who just held up his hands and shrugged, muttering something under his breath. She was about to say something, had even inhaled to do so, but Sandro speaking to the passing maid stopped her. When he asked about Laura, Mimi glanced at the stairs, shrugging one shoulder. "Not coming, hopefully. Can we just go and get this night over with?"

coded by reveriee.

_amaranth_ · Dec 26, 2020

Gianna Salvatore

location

at home

mood

suspicious

outfit

tags

Something was up. Gia felt it. Not only there was going to be this big deal fancy dinner tonight but they were dining with the Morello’s. And as far as Gianna was concerned, the two families were not exactly getting along. Quite the contrary. She herself had already fire a few warning shots. Into heads of the Morello soldiers. Fun times. She was glad papa let her. Apparently it was way different than shooting that asshole Tony. How? Gi wouldn’t know. A bastard was a bastard in her eyes but since papa said so, it had to be true. He had been in the business for quite some time now.

Gia herself has really joined the family business only a few years ago. Until then, she lived her fairy tale princess life, was about to get married. Not that her father would approve of her choice of a husband but she was so in love she never saw the dark side. Only later, when he found her prince tangled in sheets and endless legs of some bitch, she knew papa was right. And her fairy tale was over. The dark Gianna was born at the moment her perfectly manicured, burgundy red painted finger pulled the trigger of her Colt and the deafening shot echoed in her ears for quite some time. She watched a dark red puddle grow under Tony and froze, couldn’t move for quite some time. It was only later when she was at home that she realized what she had done and went to come clean to her father.

From that moment on, her black widow mode was on most of the time. She was so disappointed in men that except an occasional hookup, she didn’t care for anything else. Gia held no official position in the hierarchy but she was allowed to deal with business now and then. Papa sometimes even gave her a few men to handle a job. Not any of the Capos, her. Gianna. And it made her proud. And while working these jobs, she developed a skill or two. One of them was sensing a bullshit and tonight was just that.

Why the hell would the Salvatore’s agree to go for dinner with the Morello’s? Was there some secret plot planned? Were they going to make a move against the other family? Should she suit up? Which in her case meant, pack her guns. One thing was clear, she was definitely not wearing a dress, no matter how formal this was. Father asked them to keep the truce and not cause any trouble. But that only strengthened the suspicion within her and Gia was pissed off because she simply couldn’t put a finger on what the catch was here.

Anyway, she got dressed and made herself pretty. No matter what her feelings were, papa made it sound important enough, regardless the plan. And Gia was definitely not the one to disappoint Don Salvatore. Not after everything he had done for her.

When she finally slipped her feet in the expensive Italian stilettos and pulled her hair up in a high ponytail, Gia applied one last layer of a matte red lipstick and pursed her lips. She was quite satisfied with the outcome and sighed. “I do hope you know what you’re doing, papa.” she mumbled to herself and grabbed her purse with all her necessities. Anything a young girl her age could need. Lipstick, a compact mirror, tissues, a butterfly knife and a small handgun. Just the basic stuff.

On her way to the hallway, Gianna stopped at Camila’s door and after knocking gently, she opened them slightly. “You ready?” she asked and opened the door completely to see the perfection of her sister. “We should go, Cami. Papa will be angry if we’re late.”

code by g o l d i e l o x x

apolla · Dec 26, 2020

mood :

amused

location :

home

outfit :

tags :

Mariah; Sandro (

Morello

;; Leonardo

Something was fishy. Leo could tell, even if his older brother thought he was being slick. Alessandro may be the Don of the Morello clan now, but that didn't make him bulletproof, nor did it make him completely opaque. Though he'd never quite been an open book, either, he was Leo's brother for god's sake. If Leo couldn't sense that something was off, there could be something seriously wrong with him. Aside from what people already thought, that is. Leo was definitely not like Sandro, and definitely not like their father, the man who had been the Morello Don until his untimely end. Leo didn't hurt thinking about his father being six feet under. According to that man, Leo was worthless. At least now he could be something, if he wanted to be.

The thing was, though, Leo didn't want to be like his brother, and he definitely didn't want to be like their father. Leo wanted to have fun, he wanted to enjoy life because as those in their lifestyle knew, tomorrow was never promised. Currently, the middle Morello child sat in his room, completely naked save for a pair of grey sweats that hug low on his hips. He had a joint in one hand, the ashtray in the other as he sat in a chair, feet propped up on the miniature couch in his room. With his window propped open, he took yet another drag from the joint before blowing the smoke out of the window.

He wasn't stupid or naïve enough to think that the window was enough to hide his extracurricular activity. He also had the fan going, though, and a towel stuffed under his door. And when he went to get dressed, he would have a special spray that would help disguise the scent. Not completely hide it, but it would help. Not that he cared, really, if the others knew. He knew they had to. But he could put in the effort of pretending to care, right? Isn't that what good brothers did?

Taking one more drag from the joint, he sighed as he exhaled the smoke, glancing down at the ashtray. Knocking the cherry from the end of the joint, he gently tapped it out and then tossed what was left of it into the tray. Leaning back, he set the ashtray on the table, grabbing the aforementioned spray. He only hit the nozzle a few times, knowing the stuff was strong before he tossed the can onto the couch to collect later. Figuring it was about time he actually got dressed, he stood, stretching in front of the window before he dropped his hands by his side again.

He took his time getting dressed, running his hands through his hair after he tied his fancy shoes. His eyes narrowed slightly as he stood, inspecting himself in the mirror before he nudged the towel aside with his foot and opened his door. He headed out into the hallway, and glanced at Mimi's door once he reached the top of the stairs. At first, he wasn't going to do it, but then he decided why the hell not. Of course, he was met with instant regret as he burst through the door only to find that Mariah wasn't even dressed yet. "Jesus, Mimi, you're supposed to be dressed by now! I was just coming to tell you it's time to go. Sheesh. Warn someone next time."

He covered his eyes with his hand, fumbling for the doorknob and yanking the door shut behind him. He heard her yell something as he reached the stairs, but just waved her off. She joined him a little bit later, Sandro having arrived shortly before her. She was quick to throw him under the bus after Sandro lectured both of them, and Leo shot her a glare that she returned just as icily. "Yeah, because I'm the one who will pull a gun out of my bra to shoot someone." He muttered, shoving his hands into his pockets. He did happen to agree with what she said next, though, and he looked over at his brother. "I second. Let's go, bro."

coded by reveriee.

_amaranth_ · Dec 26, 2020

Rhys Everett

location

the Salvatore estate

mood

calm, curious

outfit

tags

sophocles

The room was dark, only soft tones of Frank Sinatra’s music were floating in the air alongside a thick smoke coming out from the cigarette burning in the ashtray. The cancer stick was soon taken up and brought to the lips of a man sitting at the window and watching the sun set. Rhys was taking his sweet time. The Salvatore’s were having an important night and he was invited as well, since he was one of the Capos. Though he still thought he was going to play bodyguard tonight. For any Salvatore that needed it. Not that the Don was some frail old man. Neither his daughters needed the protection, those girls were very much capable of hurting a man twice their size. But still, they were having dinner with those Morello bastards and one could never know what to expect from them.

With a heaving sigh, Rhys took one more long drag from the cigarette and put it out right before standing up from the seat where he had been sitting for at least an hour now. That full ashtray and a goo portion of whiskey missing from the bottle were nothing but the proof. But it was time to get ready, Don Salvatore hated tardiness and Rhys was not going to be the one to be late. Not ever. But especially not tonight. Right after he was reminded so many times of the importance of this evening. Though he was itching for one more cigarette.

And maybe it was good that he stood up and started to get ready. His thoughts were starting to go in the wrong direction, people started to pop up in his head and this was no time to be thinking about what he used to have. The past was gone. Now he was not a homicide detective anymore. He belonged to the dark side now. Not that he ever complained. But Jocelyn and Cameron sometimes visited his thoughts and it was the most painful memory ever. Because Rhys remembered every happy moment with the two but what followed was the picture of them lying in their own blood. And trust him, it’s one thing to see your wife dead. But seeing a motionless bod of your infant babygirl, that is just not right.

Shaking his head a little, Rhys poured himself another glass of whiskey and downed it fast before he went to take a shower. Much needed one. Hot spray of water made him forget a little and after a few minutes, he turned an ice-cold water on to wake up all his senses properly. It froze him to the bone, all neurons were active and shortly after, Rhys was out, walking towards his wardrobe where he rummaged for a while until he found a proper suit to wear. He fucking hated those. Some of the men around him wore suits to work as well. But not Rhys. He needed to be comfortable. But tonight was formal. He just had to wear one. Not that he was as important as the ladies or Antonio. But it wouldn’t do for any Capo not to wear a suit here.

It was quite some time later that Rhys got in his car and drove towards the Salvatore mansion. He wasn’t sure if he was also a driver tonight or not but it wouldn’t hurt him to ask. The family was probably not going to travel by one car and of that was the case, Rhys would happily offer his services in this area too.

Once at the house, he got out of the car, rang the doorbell and waited for a maid to let him in. The entrance hall was empty, very quiet. Rhys looked around, the décor was exquisite but not tacky. The marble floor was polished on point and the paintings on the walls were definitely originals. Rhys himself was not living badly but this was just another level. It was not his first time in this house but the beauty of it got him every time. Knowing his way around, Rhys walked straight towards the office and knocked. He wasn’t sure if the Don was in, but he would wait patiently. And at some point, he was bound to meet a family member or two.

code by g o l d i e l o x x

Misty Gray · Dec 26, 2020

Marco Marino

Despite having what could be described as a perfect date the night before, Marco had surprisingly woken up in bed alone; bright and early the following morning. It wasn't that he hadn't enjoyed his date, quite the contrary, as he had an amazing meal in the great company of the attractive Jane. She was funny, interesting and sweet. The last part was the problem - she was too nice and too innocent to be brought into his world. Even too sweet for him to string along for just a one night stand. Instead of going with the flow and risking dragging Jane into his way of life, Marco saw the date through to the end but made it clear to her before parting ways that it was best they didn't see each other again. To safeguard against any possibility he'd get the urge to contact her one night, likely after too many drinks, he even erased any trace of her phone number.

Marco was aware of the important meeting Sandro had arranged with the Salvatores, so he'd kept his day free of plans to ensure he'd be ready that evening. Whilst he trusted his cousin knew what he was doing, the same couldn't be said for the Salvatores, so Marco made a point of making sure his head was in the game and prepared for anything that evening. After a heavy workout in the late afternoon, he had a hot shower before getting himself ready for the evening ahead.

Although he had his own apartment for times when he needed more privacy and time away from the Morello home, Marco stayed at Sandro's place most of the time, where he could be on hand for business at any given moment. Not only that, he quite liked having family around, especially when he spent most of his time pushing anyone else away before they could get too close. Sitting back in his seat listening to the classical music his mother had grown fond of before she passed away, Marco spent some time mentally preparing himself for an interesting night ahead whilst loading his handgun as a safety preparation. When the maid knocked on his room door, Marco had been ready for some time. "I'm on my way," he called back to her. Switching off the music, he made his way out of the room. He was always one of the first to be ready for family events such as this one, except he usually chose to wait it out in his room to spare himself from having to stand around idly waiting for everyone else, especially the ladies of the family.

When he found the others, Marco took a look around and identified who was not yet present. Laura wasn't ready, which seemed to be a common occurrence that added to Sandro's dislike towards the woman. Catching Mimi's words about Laura, Marco flashed an amused grin but chose not to comment, preferring to stay out of the business that was his cousin's forced and unhappy marriage. "How's it going, brother," Marco asked his cousin, Sandro. He was sure the man had everything in hand with the arrangements, but as always, he was on hand to offer backup and advice when needed.

Tags:

Consequences · Dec 27, 2020

Chrysanthemum Alexander

To say someone who murders for a living while being heavily involved with the mafia was acting overly cautious would be a bit ironic- yet perhaps having one knife strapped to both of her thighs was much for dinner. A loud huff echoes through Chrys's bare apartment for the fifth time in the past hour. She was going to be late. The Don had told her that it was a formal and regular dinner so she shouldmatch with said etiquette. Which meant no fighting, arguing or any of the such despite the obvious hatred between the two groups, thus bringing her thought process full circle. Why were they having causal dinner? Was this a trick? What if-
The girls alarm breaks through her rampant thoughts- she was most definitely going to be late now. With her sixth sigh of the evening, she finally slips on the pantsuit. Her makeup was simple since she was never one to use it but her long hair slipped down her shoulders in endless waves. Quickly grabbing her keys she walks out and hops into her car before heading straight to the soon-to-be infamous dinner where the Morellos and Salvatores had dinner.
The ride was brief yet filled with nervous habits and consistent doubt but she was positive that each family was feeling quite the same. Not that she knew the Salvatore family very well besides the main honcho. She is a woman of business so it was simply that- a business trip.
Not too much later her small Volkswagen bug pulls up into the parking lot. It wouldn’t be too long until everyone arrived- that is unless the Morello’s held up to their consistent rumor of not being punctual.
With one last look into the small mirror in her car she heads into the restaurant to wait patiently. She had no intention of being anything other than a precaution against any sudden changes to this pleasant and peaceful dinner.

Misty Gray · Dec 27, 2020

Camila Salvatore

Camila wasn't sure what to think of the formal dinner with the Morellos. Usually, the thought of coming into contact with that family meant she would be preparing to attack, but the evening's meeting commanded a peaceful affair. Giovanni had stressed that the families were to be civil with each other which also meant the urge to shoot any of the rival family had to be contained. It would be a challenge, but Camila never backed away from hard work. Instead, she adapted. That was precisely why for tonight, she had ditched the trousers and softened her make-up. Perhaps if she appeared less stony and stern, it would trick the enemy into underestimating her. Or, on a shallow level, it would make her seem more welcoming and approachable than usual. Besides, dresses made it much easier to strap a weapon to her thigh and conceal it from those around her.

With perfectly painted nails and not a single hair out of place, one would be forgiven for thinking Camila had been getting herself ready for hours on end. In reality, everything had been done meticulously and efficiently, following nearly a lifetime of being mentally aversive to personal imperfections. She sprayed on some expensive perfume and delicately placed it back into the correct place on the shelf, which was arranged by colour and size. One of the benefits of her perfectionism was it made it easy to notice when something was missing or out of place. Outside of her personal space, her focused and observant nature meant she was able to spot changes or suspicious details in the environment around her. She craved order and would even seek it out amongst supposed chaos.

As she finished putting away her make-up into its rightful place, Camila heard footsteps out in the hallway. Experience told her the footsteps belonging to her sister and that was soon confirmed when Gianna opened the door to address her. "Of course I'm ready," Camila replied; her focus remained on the mirror but she glanced to her sister's reflection. As she did one final check on her own appearance, she turned to her sister and smiled to her. She figured she'd be doing a lot of fake smiling once at the casino, she best to warm up the facial muscles now whilst in the presence of people she did care about. "We won't be late," she confidently told Gianna. She walked to the door, maintaining a perfect posture in the high heels. "You look beautiful," she told her sister after giving her the once over.

After they had both stepped out of Camila's room, she proceeded to look the bedroom door before walking down the stairs alongside her sister. "Don't forget, we must all be on our best behaviour tonight, even in the presence of the slippery Morello snakes," she quietly told Gianna, before letting out a brief, sarcastic laugh. "Whatever is going down, Papa needs it to be a success."

_amaranth_ (Gianna)

Devotion · Dec 27, 2020

Kira

Mood: excited

Location: Fat Tony's Pawnshop

Outfit: click!

Interactions: none

It always felt the same. The black nitrile gloves were surely becoming the second skin of hers and Kira could tell her body had developed a variation of Pavlov’s reflex because of them. Each time she felt the cold material on her fingertips a rush of adrenaline was slowly starting to fill her body up. She could notice her heart picking up a pace and her lips forming into a malevolent grin. It was time for her to do another small job for Sandro and since it was Kira who he had sent to take care of it, there would be blood. Kira never shied away from admitting that she loved inflicting pain on others and with each job she could let her fantasy run loose. There were no restrictions on how the job had to be done and that is why she liked Sandro. The only thing that mattered to him was the objective and Kira always delivered. As she loved to say: When one is to dig a hole, it matters not what tool is used until you succeed.

The back alley of the pawnshop she was about to visit was completely empty, i.e. perfect for her to get ready without any uninvited witnesses. Walking to the trunk of her car she pulled out her leg holster and mounted it on her right leg. If her information was correct, fat Tony was supposed to be alone, just like any day - counting the cash sales from the day. Placing three pencils and a piece of paper into the inside pocket of her suit, it was showtime. Kira closed the trunk and started walking towards the back door. The lock was a piece of cake for the orange bolt cutter she was carrying and she got in within seconds. A foul stench hit her nose like a train. The place smelled exactly like fat Tony - like a mixture of grease and sweaty armpits. Kira figured she needed to be quick as she was sure that if no gangster kills her, the smell definitely would. Carefully making her way through the storage rooms and security room, Kira made sure she checked each of them to make sure there really was only her and Tony inside. There was no one to be found in any of them and Kira was safe to conclude her assumption was right when she heard the flushing of a toilet coming from the men’s room located right behind her. She slowly turned around, her eyes wide open, her heart pounding as she awaited in suspense what was going to emerge from the room. Soon, the doors opened and a tall, buffed man in a suit and sporting a pretty disgusting tribal tattoo on the side of his face appeared. “The fuck is that? Your mom did not buy you a paper? Why is there a drawing on your face?” she teased him and before he was able to reach for a punch, Kira shot him twice in his heart. You know, as hitmen do, just to make sure. Once the bastard was taken care of, Kira proceeded to check the toilet and immediately regretted it.

Once she reached Tony’s office and kindly let herself in, it was obvious that she was the last person he was expecting to see that day. Judging by the sweat that appeared on his forehead and the babbling coming from his mouth, he knew that he fucked up. The room smelled even worse than the rest of the shop and something was telling her it was because Tony’s smelly armpits were actually present in the room this time. She started walking towards the desk he was sitting at and sat herself down opposite him once she reached it. Her left hand then gently found the inside pocket of her white suit and reached for what she had placed there earlier - three sharp pencils and a piece of paper. “The names,” she said in a calm and stone-cold voice, placing the piece of paper in front of fat Tony. Then she placed the three pencils on the desk right next to the paper, on her left, and Tony’s right hand. Her task for tonight was to get Tony to tell her the names of the cops he had told about his cooperation with her Don, Sandro Morello. That fucking rat thought he would not find out that he made a deal with them and was probably already seeing himself with a nice new name somewhere in Mexico within the witness protection program.

Kira noticed that Tony was pressing something with his right index finger underneath the desk. “The big guy is not coming,” she said as she figured he was probably trying to call the tall guy from the toilet. “I need the names,” she repeated her request but was only met with more of Tony’s babbling about how she got the wrong guy and how he did not do anything. Kira clenched her teeth as she was starting to get annoyed, if there was something she could not stand, it was begging. She placed her index finger on her lips, hinting Tony that he should stop talking. “Nod if you understand what I am saying, you fat pig. It is not about whether you did it. Because I know you did. It is about you giving me the names before I hurt you. And I am gonna be really pissed if I get blood on my suit. We clear?” she said as she leaned towards Tony. She was very fond of her outfit that night although it was something she would never wear for a job. The circumstances, however, had it that she had no choice as Sandro was organizing a dinner meet up with the rival family, Salvatores, and would it be for this urgency, Kira was supposed to be there, too. Making sure Sandro would make it unharmed out of there if shit was to hit the fan. “The names,” she said and tapped her index finger on the paper.

code by Stardust Galaxy

Desert_Blossom · Dec 27, 2020

Vietto

Vietto swirled the ice cubes around in his glass as her looked at his cards. It was a habit he’d picked up while gambling, though his drink of choice these days was ginger ale. His old friend whisky hadn’t graced his glass for over a month now, and likely wouldn’t as long as Vietto’s winning streak continued. Taking a sip of his drink, the young man set his cards down and pushed all of his chips into the center of the table with his other hand.

“All in.” He said simply, checking his watch. He had to leave soon anyways, so he might as well risk it all. Besides, the man sitting next to him had been stingy with his chips the past few hands, and Vietto wanted to force him into losing some money to the casino his employers, the Morello Family, owned.

A small grin rugged at the corner of Vietto’s mouth when the man he was gambling against matched his bid. Finally. Flipping his cards over, Vietto immediately reached into the center of the table to collect his winnings. He didn’t even need to wait for the man to show his hand to know that he’d won.

“Better luck next time.” Vietto smirked as his opponent cursed, angry to have lost such a sum of money. Standing from the table, Vietto tipped the House generously, and took his leave.

When Vietto had begun winning decent money from his employer’s casino rather than losing it, he had been tempted to take his gambling elsewhere. Every penny he got, was potentially taking from the Morello’s pocket. However, he justified his gambling by coaxing others to bet and subsequent lose more money to the House than they would have otherwise. Vietto also typically tipped the house around 50% of his winnings, which he figured was a fair cut for his work. Besides, gambling winnings could count as his yearly bonus.

Vietto checked his watch again as he cashed out his winnings and departed the casino. Usually he didn’t care about being punctual, but Sandro had instilled in him time and time again that tonight was not a night to be running late. Tonight’s dinner with the Salvatores was apparently very important, but Vietto hadn’t given much thought as to why. He would just show up when and where he was supposed to, and let the mystery of the dinner’s purpose unfold as the night went on.

Already dressed in his suit, Vietto collected his car from the valet and made his way to Sandro’s residence. Typically he would have preferred to take his motorcycle. However, since he was attired in one of his best suits, and didn’t know if he’d be driving anyone to the dinner, Vietto elected to drive his black Escalade.

Slowing to a stop as he approached the gates entrance to the Morrelo Residence, Vietto punched in the code and waited for the gate to open. Once he made his way up the long landscaped driveway, he killed the engine of his SUV and climbed out. No one was out front yet, so Vietto figured the family was still inside preparing. Rather than go in though, Vietto leaned against the hood of the Escalade to await the Morellos. After all, he was here to serve them tonight, and didn’t need to involve himself in their usual family squabbles that occurred when they all attended events together.

Relaxed

Casino> Morello Residence

@ N/A

nine lives

sophocles · Dec 27, 2020

gio salvatore

mood

cautious

outfit

business

location

at home

tags

apolla

Tommaso Salvatore was rolling in his grave.

Giovanni Salvatore sat at his desk in thought. Papers lay across it, but none of those had his attention. He was staring at one of the many photographs that he had framed on the desk. He eyed it carefully, squinting at the photo. After a second, he sighed, placing his glass of amaretto on the desk in order to pick it up.

It was a photo of him and his father, taken at the grand opening of their first Vegas casino. Gio bit the inside of his mouth; he knew that what he was about to do would be nothing but a betrayal to his father and his ideology.

Ante Omni. Before All. The Salvatore Way was to not only come out on top but to also crush anyone who stood in their way. No truces, no parleys, no making deals. It would be utter destruction or nothing at all, especially when it came to the other family making money in Las Vegas.

Tommaso would never agree to be in the same room as a Morello, much less party with them.

A decade ago, neither would Gio.

The two families had been at each other's throats ever since Tommaso moved his business from New York to the Las Vegas Casino District; an area that had previously been solely controlled by the Morellos for years. Within a few years, the Salvatores had made a name for themselves, much to the chagrin of their counterparts. Tommaso did everything in his power to climb and excel, and Giovanni had taken that vow after his father's passing.

However, things have changed.

There was an obvious stalemate in the air. The Morellos would kill a Salvatore, the Salvatores would return the favor. The Salvatores would kill a Morello and the Morellos would return the favor. The cycle was nonstop. Yet, unlike the early years of Gio's reign, there was no progress. The deaths were in vain; there were no rewards to be reaped. Each family had their fair share of blood spilled but nothing to show for it. War without riches was pointless.

Gio was tired, but he would not yield. His pride and the family name were too high a price to yield.

He didn't need to, for Alessandro Morello would show his hand soon enough.

Now, Gio cared as much for Alessandro as he did for the young man's father. He saw the Don as nothing but a boy who didn't have the skills nor the experience to keep the Morello Family afloat. Of course, he would be there when Alessandro fell, making sure to pick up all the pieces and put them in his own pockets. He underestimated the young Don. He had lost a few pieces of his own at the word of Alessandro. Stupid, stupid. Gio could not help to see himself in Alessandro and that was a problem. How can you fight yourself?

However, Alessandro had surprised him. He had been the first one to cave, to crawl to his door to beg for a chance to settle this, face to face.

Gio smirked; that was something that he would never let live down. In the end, it was the Morellos, not the Salvatores, who asked for a truce. That alone was a thought that would keep him happy for days, perhaps months.

Tommaso would not have agreed, but Tommaso was no longer the head of the Salvatore Family.

He placed the frame back on the desk, picked up his glass, and strode to the large windows that graced his study, overlooking the courtyard of the estate. Unlike the Morellos, who preferred to be as close to their business as possible, Gio craved space, something that could not be achieved in the casino district. The estate was impressive, as was the force it took to guard it.

He took a sip of his amaretto, surveying his surroundings. He still had not convinced himself that this was the right thing to do; in fact, he was having nothing but serious doubts. He had shared the events of his private meeting with his underboss, Antonio, who promptly told him that it was "a trainwreck waiting to happen." Antonio's words of warning should have been enough to sway Gio's mind against the idea; there was a reason that he was the Don's second, after all. Yet, they were not.

Business was bad. He was tired of losing good soldiers. God forbid his daughters, the lights of his life, were the next causality in the never-ending blood bath. He frowned, pondering the thought. No, that could never happen. That WOULD never happen. Safeguards needed to be in place to ensure the safety of his family. They meant more to him than his own life, after all.

He could hear the girls getting ready, their light voices echoing in the lofty halls. With another sip, he smiled sadly.

The cost would be great, but for the security of the Salvatore name and business, it had to be considered.

Besides, if there was no compromise to be found, the Salvatores would do what they do best.

Shoot first, speak second.

His bleak thoughts were interrupted by the sound of a car pulling into the drive. He looked up, watching as the soldiers at the front gate stop the car to peer inside before waving it forward. The car stopped in front of the landing, leading to a well-dressed man to step out and approach the front door.

Rhys.

Gio smiled wryly. Good, he was tired of being with his own thoughts. Antonio was still yet to arrive and since taking a hand in Rhys' future, he had grown to enjoy the Capo's company. He stood at the window, leaning against the frame until he heard a knock at the closed door. He did not make a motion to move, only to promptly finish whatever amaretto was left in his glass.

"Door is open."

coded by reveriee.

apolla · Dec 27, 2020

mood :

apprehensive

location :

Salvatore home

outfit :

tags :

Gio (

sophocles ); Rhys (

Rossi

;; Antonio

A trainwreck waiting to happen.

That's exactly what Antonio Rossi had told Gio Salvatore in regards to the announcement that was to be made this evening at the Morello casino. The engagement was not going to received well, especially not if the intel Antonio had on Leonardo Morello was correct. Although Tony had never had the pleasure of actually interacting one on one with the middle Morello child, he'd heard stories and those paired with the little bit he'd seen was enough. But even he had nothing on the attitude that radiated off of the Morello daughter, and had some sort of arrangement been made with her, Tony knew that things could be much, much worse.

Still, Tony wasn't looking forward to the evening, and even though those words had not explicitly left his mouth, he knew that his tone towards the event was enough to portray how he really felt. Gio also knew Tony better than just about anyone, and Tony had no doubt that Gio knew exactly how the underboss felt about this situation. Tony wouldn't throw a fit or tantrum about the night, though, because he was a grown man and he was quite above making a scene. Tony's version of making a scene usually ended with a silenced gunshot between the eyes, or a knife in the back.

But tonight didn't call for either of those things, or so he hoped. As he got ready at his own home, he made sure to tuck two blades on his body, as well as a gun. He never went anywhere without a weapon, especially not into enemy territory. Tonight was supposed to go smoothly, but considering the history between the Morellos and the Salvatores, Tony didn't foresee that happening. Why Gio had agreed to this, Tony wasn't sure.

Okay, maybe that was a lie. Gio did confide in Tony, which was a good thing, Tony thought. Ever since the death of his wife, he'd needed that confidante, that person he could go to to ensure he kept his family afloat. Tony had no doubt that Gio could do that on his own, though. Gio Salvatore was nothing if not a strong man, both physically and mentally. But Tony took pride in his position under Gio, because the Salvatores were important to Tony, and if he could help them in any way possible, he would.

Once he buttoned the last button on his suit, Tony perched in one of his chairs to slide his feet into his shoes. Once they were laced, he stood, glancing at himself in the mirror to make sure he looked presentable. After fixing a stray strand of hair, he grabbed his keys and patted himself down, making sure he had everything before leaving his home. The drive to the Salvatore home was not a long one, as he liked to be close by should he be needed. He spotted a familiar car and automatically narrowed his eyes, though he quickly cleared the expression. He and Rhys had history, but that was all water under the bridge.

Parking, Antonio got out of the car and headed for the front door. It opened before he reached it, and he gave the maid who had done so a nod in greeting before his gaze slid over to the other two men in the front of the home. "Evening, gentlemen. I apologize for being late." He straightened his suit, looking from one man to the other. "Are we ready to head out?" His voice grew a bit tighter as he spoke, making his stance on the evening quite clear.

coded by reveriee.

Desert_Blossom · Dec 28, 2020

Courtney a.k.a. “Kassandra”

Servers and attendants of the Crimson Shrine worked diligently under the watchful brown eyes of Kassandra as they prepared for tonight’s dinner. The long table was nearly set, the wine selected and the harder alcohols were cooling on ice. Truth be told, Kassandra had to give little direction to the staff as they buzzed around the large dining room, each waiter or waitress chosen for being at the top of their field. As Sandro’s assistant, her role right now was rather to serve as a surveyor, and should anything go wrong, to put out any fires before either the Morello or Salvatore Family arrived for the big night.

Though she had not worked for the Morellos very long, Kassandra had observed Sandro’s keen desire for tonight’s festivities to go off without hitch. What the exact reasoning behind the dinner was remained a secret, but the brunette knew that if she wanted to remain Sandro’s assistant, she needed to do her part to ensure that the event was set up for success. Beyond that, Kassandra had no control over what happened between the attendees, and the blame wouldn’t fall on her in that regard. Having the Morellos and Salvatores in the same room was like walking into a minefield, one misstep or poorly phrased sentiment and the whole night would explode... in gunfire.

Kassandra checked the time on her phone as the finishing touches were put on the table. Things were ahead of schedule here, but she needed to make sure her boss was on schedule too. Kassandra quickly shot Sandro a text, to cover her ass if nothing else.

“Reminder to leave in the next 15 mins if you haven’t left already. I have a car and driver on standby 5 mins from your residence, ready to pick you up, if needed. All is under control here.”

Preparing for an event was far from what the undercover agent was trained for, but as her alias Kassandra, she had to keep up appearances. Speaking of which... Kassandra paused as she passed by a decorative mirror on the wall, inspecting her reflection. She’d gotten ready prior to coming to the Crimson Shrine, but still looked put together despite spending the last two hours working. Internally, Kassandra’s feet were killing her in her heels and she felt awkward in the floor length gown, but outwardly she looked the part. All that was needed was a few minutes in the powder room to freshen up, and she’d be ready.

Well, ready as far as Kassandra the Assistant was concerned. Courtney the Agent, on the other hand, was doing her best to keep her nerves and emotions in check. Tonight would be the first time she would be in the same room as the mob family responsible for the murder of her family. The temptation to blow her cover and everything she’d worked for made Courtney’s stomach tighten, but she continually reminded herself that she sought justice, not revenge. Attempting to take out any of the Salvatores tonight was not the answer to her pain...

But a shot of tequila was the answer to her nerves. Courtney ordered one of the servers to bring her a shot of Patron, needing a little alcohol to take off the edge and help her assume the friendly demeanor that Kassandra possessed. A minute later, the server returned with the tequila, and in one motion Courtney picked up the glass, tossed back the liquid courage, and placed the empty glass back on the tray. Dismissing the server, Courtney wondered how many discrete shots being Kassandra for the night would require.

On Edge

The Crimson Shrine

nine lives

_amaranth_ · Dec 31, 2020

Sandro Morello

location

at home

mood

anxious

outfit

tags

Desert_Blossom

Sandro really wished he didn’t have to have this speech for his siblings. Everything would be so much easier if Mimi and Leo were normal mob kids, the ones that understood the duty and behaved like it was expected of them. But Mimi always had this rebellious nature that not even their late father was able to tame and Leo, well, he was Leo. The second he came closer to Sandro, the Don could smell the pot on him. Deciding not to comment on that, Sandro continued in his instructions which only made the two mumble their own snarky comments.

“No one is going to pull any guns from their bras or from anywhere else. We have made truce with the Salvatores at least for tonight. And it will go on, are we clear?” he asked, giving his siblings a pointed look. It was enough that he needed to bother himself with Laura’s constant whining but having those two around was going to be even more exhausting. Thank god for Marco always having his back, otherwise, Sandro really had no idea how to handle everything tonight.

Speak of the devil, his Underboss appeared. “All good. Once Laura finally graces us with her presence, we’re ready to go.” he smiled at his cousin who was more like a brother to him. “I need you sharp tonight, Marco. Sharper than usual. We have the truce but you never know what to expect. After all, they are the Salvatore’s.” Sandro clasped Marco on his back when his phone went off. Fishing it out, he checked the text from Kassandra. At least someone out there was reliable.

“Send the car. Leo and Mimi are arriving first, me and Marco will take the car you got ready.” he texted her back and sighed, flashing an annoyed look upstairs where Laura was still getting ready.

“You two…” he pointed at the younglings. “…take the car waiting outside and go. We’ll join you shortly.” he instructed them, hoping beyond hope that was a good idea. “And remember what I said. No fucking fighting.” he called after them and watched them leave the house, rubbing his face. “Laura, you have ten seconds to get down here or we’re leaving without you!”

That seemed to work as the lady Morello was soon heard clicking down the stairs, snarky as ever. “Whatever you say. I look like a fucking beggar but that’s your fault. Thank god you managed to doll yourself up.” she grumbled but Sandro was not in the mood. He just grabbed her arm and shoved her out the door, turning his attention back to Marco. “I need tonight to be smooth. Flawless. If I put her down tonight. No one will be able to blame me.” Sandro shook his head and followed his hateful bitch of the wife out the door.

code by g o l d i e l o x x

_amaranth_ · Dec 31, 2020

Gianna Salvatore

location

at home

mood

suspicious

outfit

tags

After a certain set of events, there were not many men Gianna trusted. There was possibly only one and that was her papa. Men had disappointed her so much that Gia was really insecure around them, she just learned to hide it behind the harsh, cold-blooded interior of her new black widow persona. Therefore, knowing that they were going to meet with another mob family, presided by the young Don, Gia was really suspicious about this while situation. Especially since her father made truce with them for tonight. There had to be some hidden agenda there. And Gia hated not knowing what it was.

For the sake of the family, she dropped her investigation and just got ready, making sure she was prepared for any situation. Waiting for Camila, Gia couldn’t have not notice that her sister was once again perfect. The dress and makeup made her look even more amazing. Gianna always looked up to Camila. Some mob families considered it a tragedy if there was no son but not the Salvatore’s. Papa accepted the fact that he had two daughters and prepared Cami as best as he could. And the oldest sister approached the task responsibly. She was the perfect future replacement for the head of the family and Gia admired her for that. She herself was too rash, too impulsive for becoming the Don. And though she never even had that ambition, she would love to have at least a small portion of Camila’s level-headedness.

Hearing the compliment from her older sister, Gia blushed softly. “So do you. You should wear a skirt more often.” she complimented her back and the sisters slowly walked downstairs. Hearing Camila to remind her about the evening, Gia nodded. She knew that it might have been a partial warning because the dark-haired beauty was known to make reckless decisions. Gia was guided by her own mantra of acting first, then thinking about it. And that was not something they could afford tonight.

The girls reached the bottom of the staircase and there was no one around. Gia could hear quiet voices from her father’s office but she knew better than interrupt. As much as papa loved her, he taught her not to walk in his office just like that, any time she wished. She checked the time on a large round clock in the hallway and looked at Camila. “Do you think we should go get him? I don’t want to come after the Morello’s, god knows what they might plot against us by the time we arrive.” she looked at her sister, seeking some advice. If it was up to Gia, she would already be there, plotting a possible trap herself. Yet, she had to abide by the rules. At least tonight.

code by g o l d i e l o x x

_amaranth_ · Dec 31, 2020

Rhys Everett

location

the Salvatore estate

mood

calm, curious

outfit

tags

sophocles

Rhys didn’t know what was about to happen tonight or why the Salvatore’s even agreed to meet with that pack of wild animals. If it was up to him, he would bring an old classic of tommy gun to the meeting and finished the whole conflict once and for all. But Don Salvatore called for the truce and the best behavior and Rhys was definitely not going to violate that. He was a good soldier and his police training had taught him a thing or two. A former detective in service of mafia, he considered himself quite the employee.

When he arrived to the Salvatore estate, Rhys thought they all would be ready but that was apparently not the case. Not even Antonio was in sight though that was quite expected. If the Underboss was there, he would most probably be with the Don. And that was where Rhys immediately headed. To the office.

After knocking a few times, he politely waited for the Don to call him in and only when he heard the words about the door being open, he reached for the door knob, turned it and let himself in. “Good evening, sir.” he nodded at his employer and closed the door after himself. “I came a little earlier in case you needed another vehicle. My car is at your disposal if you need it.” Rhys spoke in quiet but firm voice, offering his services as always. It was not his place to speak more or to ask about more private matters. If the Don wanted, he would tell him himself.

Antonio appeared shortly and Rhys greeted him with a nod. The two shared a little history and though the Underboos did not trust the former detective at first, they were on quite good terms now. All it took was Rhys catching a bullet meant for Tony which tied him to bed for a few weeks. But it was the final proof Antonio needed that Rhys was really loyal to the family and not to the country. For the time being, Rhys remained quiet as his position in the hierarchy was not that high for him to speak more than necessary. He let the two more important man talk and waited for further orders.

code by g o l d i e l o x x

apolla · Jan 1, 2021

mood :

annoyed

location :

home ---> Crimson Shrine

outfit :

tags :

Leo; Sandro (

Morello

;; Mariah

It was no secret that Mariah wasn't fond of Laura, but then again, the redhead wasn't fond of Mimi either. The girls had gotten into more than one catfight, and honestly, Mimi just tried to avoid her. If Laura didn't come with them to the casino, well, Mimi's feelings wouldn't be hurt. She wasn't good enough for Sandro as it was, though she knew they hadn't married for love. Being the youngest, Mariah was thankful that she would likely not have to experience something like that. But then again, she was the only female Morello child, and who knew what Sandro would want to do to keep the family afloat.

She'd kill him if he tried, though.

A smirk graced her features when Sandro gave the siblings a pointed look, her eyes darting over to Leo. "You hear that? No pulling a gun from your bra, Leo." Blowing a kiss in his direction, she laughed at the annoyed look that flitted across his face. Turning her attention back to Sandro, she lifted a brow at him when he instructed her and Leo to go first. "Need to make an entrance, brother?" She asked, a false innocent tone to her voice. Smiling sweetly at Sandro, she turned and gave Leo a look before starting for the car waiting outside. She didn't have to look behind her to hear his horse feet following her.

"Hear that? No fucking fighting, Mimi." He smirked from behind her, adjusting his suit as they reached the door.

"Whatever you start, I'll finish, brother." Mimi glanced his way, giving him a onceover before she opened the door, not bothering to hold it for him after she stepped through it. The car was waiting as expected, and she slid into the backseat as Leo crossed to the other side to get in as well. They shut their doors and the car was off to the Crimson Shrine, one of their more well-known casinos. The siblings didn't talk on the way, but that was fine with Mariah. When they arrived, the driver got out to open her door, and she unfolded herself from the car to head inside.

coded by reveriee.

apolla · Jan 1, 2021

mood :

amused

location :

home ---> Crimson Shrine

outfit :

tags :

Mariah; Sandro (

Morello

;; Leonardo

Although Leo had his suspicions about the night and how things were going to go, it wasn't like he could voice them. Or, well, he could-- but what would be the point? If anything were in the works, it wasn't like Sandro would tell him. He doubted Mariah knew anything, and it wasn't like they were close enough to really talk about it. She'd really become quite the bitch in the last few years. Hell, she could give Laura a run for her money at times, even if she would slit his throat for even thinking it. He'd keep that thought to himself and his throat intact, thank you.

"You hear that? No pulling a gun from your bra, Leo." Narrowing his eyes in Mimi's direction as she blew a kiss at him, he just scoffed and rolled his eyes as she looked back in Sandro's direction. "I have better places to hide my weapon, thank you. Not that you need to know about that." He muttered as she started off towards the door. Jogging a bit to catch up to her, he smirked from his position behind her. "Hear that? No fucking fighting, Mimi."

"Whatever you start, I'll finish, brother." He rolled his eyes again, deciding just not to say anything else to her as he rounded the car to get in the other side. They were off to the casino within a short time, and the ride there was quiet. He messed around on his phone during the drive, not even acknowledging that his sister was beside him. But she did the same, so it worked. When they arrived, the siblings got out of the car and headed inside.

The Crimson Shrine was definitely one of their better casinos, though Leo didn't usually visit this one. He glanced around as they entered, deciding that he definitely needed a drink to get through the night. He flagged down a nearby waiter, ordering two shots of whiskey right off the bat. The dinner would be taking place in the back room of the casino, but Leo wasn't trying to head that way yet. He decided to wait for his shots at one of the penny machines, plopping down onto the seat in front of it and hitting the play button on the screen.

coded by reveriee.

Misty Gray · Jan 1, 2021

Marco Marino

Marco nonchalantly nodded along as Sandro told him he needed to be sharp throughout the evening. However, when it was reiterated that he needed to be even more focused than usual, he raised a curiously suspicious eyebrow. He disliked the Salvatores as much as the rest of his family, but he was practically always on his best behaviour during business meetings, regardless of who the other parties were. Marco couldn't help but suspect there was more to it than merely concerns over meeting with their rivals. "Oh, you know me. I'm always sharp, but I had an early night last night and I've been working out today. I'll be on top form," he assured his cousin.

Marco watched on as his two youngest cousins were giving their instructions and reminded there was to be no fighting. He was sure they'd know to be mature enough given the circumstances, but it didn't mean he wouldn't keep a close eye on Leo and Mariah. If anyone was going to ruin the night or make an embarrassment of themselves, he hoped it would be one of Giovanni's lot. No sooner had his two cousins left did Laura appear on the scene. What followed was more examples of how unhappy the marriage between Sandro and Laura was. Whilst Marco's default stance was to want to defend women, Laura wasn't exactly the defenseless, brainwashed type of woman like his own mother had been. Sandro's wife was a cocky bitch and wasn't worthy of his concern, no doubt leeching off of the Morellos too much to want to throw away such perks now. He wouldn't show much concern were she to end up dead, that was for sure.

With Laura storming off ahead, Marco dropped back as he followed along with Sandro to the car. "Short of having your wife mysteriously disappear, I'll do what I can to help things run smoothly. I mean, it would be easier to arrange for an unfortunate accident to befall her," he remarked, his grin showing he was joking. Taking advantage of the brief moment without an audience, he looked seriously to Sandro. "Is there anything else I need to know? Any meeting withe Salvatores is complicated, but something tells me there's more to it than everyone is expecting."

Tags:

Desert_Blossom · Jan 5, 2021

Vietto

The front door to the Morello residence opened, and Vietto stood up from where he leaned against the hood of his Escalade, straightening out his suit as he did so. It was Leo and Mariah who emerged from the mansion, and Vietto waited for a moment to see if the Don would be following. When it became clear that only the two younger Morello siblings would be departing at this time, Vietto relaxed a little and made his way to open the door for Mariah. His pause to look for Sandro, however, delayed him and Mariah beat him to the punch, opening her own door and getting in.

Vietto held his breath, waiting to be chastised for being rude, but the brunette woman didn't seem to notice or care about Vietto's lack of manners. Both she and Leo appeared to have other matters on their mind, so the capo silently made his way to the driver side, and got in, starting up the car once the passenger doors had been shut.

The ride to the Crimson Shrine was quiet, almost uncomfortably so, at least for Vietto. Neither Leo or Mariah spoke to one another, and Vietto didn't want to be the one to incite idle chatter, or argument, amongst the siblings. Every now and then the capo glanced in his rearview mirror, trying to read Leo or Mimi, but they were closed books. Perhaps tonight's dinner was to blame for their lack of conversation. Or perhaps it was just a sibling thing. Either way, it wasn't any of Vietto's business until someone made it his.

Upon arrival at the casino, Vietto was quick to get out of the car first, and jogged over to Mariah's side of the car, opening her door for her to get out. With a grin, he offered his hand as she unfolded herself from the car. "You're looking dangerously beautiful tonight Mimi... Your plan to knock the Salvatores dead if no one shoots them first?" He teased, unable to keep from giving Mariah a quick once over. Vietto was well aware that they were under strict orders to avoid any violence at tonight's affair, but the mutual hate between the families would still be an elephant in the room.

Once the Morello siblings had exited the vehicle and made their way inside the casino, Vietto dealt with the valet, instructing the man to keep the Escalade out front and at the ready. Just in case. If things did go wrong tonight, the last thing the capo wanted was to have to wait for a valet to bring around the getaway car. With matters taken care of, Vietto trailed after the others and entered the Crimson Shrine.

Vietto did not see where Mariah had wandered off to, but he was quick to locate Leo at the penny slots and made his way over to his friend. "Sandro tightening the purse strings on you, eh?" Vietto joked, nodding to the cheap slots that Leo was perched at. "Surely you can at least afford the quarter slots." He added, leaning against one of the machines.

"Still no word on why your brother has called for tonight's dinner with the enemy?" The capo asked, becoming distracted by a pair of scantily clad women passing by. The women smiled flirtatiously when they caught Vietto looking, but the capo just gave them a smirk and a small wave of the hand. There was no time for that kind of fun to be had tonight, but he could still look. "I think the redhead is making eyes at you Leo. One for each of us." He laughed, turning back to his friend.

Relaxed

Crimson Shrine

nine lives

Consequences · Jan 14, 2021

Chrysanthemum Alexander
Salvatori

Birds of a feather. Well, birds who wore long silk dresses and sharp tuxedos while sipping on large amounts of tequila or anything else they are handed: although, Chrysanthemum didn’t exactly mind the whole scene. Her white pantsuit and black lace cami practically made her look like a stain on an old ugly couch- she was perfectly dressed. ( Camouflaged- if she did say so herself.) She fit in without even trying which was quite the relief considering how worried she originally was.
Shifting from foot to foot her eyes wander to a slender figure in a white dress standing not too far from her but far enough to be on her own. Chrysanthemum scans the woman up and down- simply taking notice of her attire. She’s gorgeous and her stance screams confidence in the long hip hugging white dress, yet with a closer eye- one could see the way her shoulders were tight and the slight sway of shifting her weight foot to foot.
Within a few strides Chrysanthemum reaches the very end of the bar, just a few feet from the woman now, then orders the stranger a copy of what she had been drinking and sends it her way. The bar tender- with a smile and a wink-complied, sending a server over with the drink in had.
Considering that -if she herself didn’t know the woman- she wasn’t batting for the same team, it seemed oddly appropriate to offer a drink beneath the sparkling fairy lights and smooth music that seems to caress her ears every so often. Would be a downright shame to waste an opportunity of glamour to a thousand year old grudge.
“Such an awful waste of a lovely evening. Hours dressing for the occasion just to wait around for an all out brawl. “ Pouting softly to herself the words fall from her mouth blandly- not to mention on deaf ears.
Chrys has a seat with her back against the bar’s countertop only to raise her cup in a like toast style for just a moment as the stranger Receives her own beverage.

Desert_Blossom · Jan 14, 2021

Courtney aka “Kassandra”

The vibration of her phone distracted Kassandra from ordering another shot of tequila, and she read off Sandro's text asking her to send the car she had arranged. Kassandra dutifully made a quick call to the driver on standby, giving him the clear to head to the Morello residence to pick up the Don and his Underboss, Marco. Her fingers typed quickly as she shot back a follow up text.

"Copy that! The driver is on his way to you, should be there shortly. Laura not coming??"

Kassandra hit send as soon as she finished typing, but immediately regretted asking about the Don's wife. It wasn't any of her business whether Laura attended tonight's affair or not, and she may have been overstepping. She'd only asked because Sandro hadn't mentioned her in his text, but the Don didn't particularly care for his wife it seemed, so even if she was coming, he'd likely not include her name. Oh well, Sandro could just ignore the question.

Suddenly the drink that Kassandra hadn't gotten the chance to order a few moments ago, appeared before her like magic. Kassandra looked at the server confused for a moment, before the server nodded their head over at Chrysanthemum. Glancing over at the young woman at the bar, Kassandra saw her raise her glass in a toast. Intrigued, Kassandra returned the gesture, raising her glass of tequila as well and nodding at Chrysanthemum, before taking a sip of it.

The young woman wasn't part of the Morello mob family- Kassandra had learned the names and faces of every known associate before going undercover as Sandro's assistant, and had learned of even more members since. But Chrysanthemum was not one of them. And if she was here tonight, that could then only mean that she worked for the Salvatores, making her an enemy for more reasons than one. However, as the saying went... Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer.

Carrying her drink with her, Kassandra closed the distance between herself and Chrysanthemum, coming to a stop beside the Salvatore Mob member. "A peace offering?" Kassandra asked with a wry smile, shaking the ice around in her drink a little. "Or just a temporary cease fire?" She joked, taking another sip and taking a quick study of Chrysanthemum.

Her new acquaintance was surprisingly young, and Kassandra wondered if she was truly even drinking age yet. She also wondered how this young woman had already found herself mixed up with the mob. Kassandra didn't voice either of these musings though, instead staying in character and commenting on a neutral topic that normal young women who weren't about to attend a dinner party between two bloody mob families would talk about- fashion.

"I love your outfit. I'll have to invest in a suit like that if these kind of dinners are going to catch on." Kassandra said, smiling. The chances that dinners between Morellos and Salvatores would become customary were slim to none, but the brunette did envy Chrysanthemum's choice of attire. It looked at least a little more freeing than the dress she wore, but just as refined.

“To tonight’s dinner.” Kassandra added, clinking her glass against Chrysanthemum’s in a final cheers, before finishing its contents. Another glass closer to numbing the nerves.

Intrigued

The Crimson Shrine

Consequences

nine lives

Consequences · Jan 14, 2021

Chrysanthemum Alexander

To her surprise/relief, this mystery woman stood next to her in an almost ( yet not really ) chatty friendly way.
“ No, no. This toast,” She gestures to both of their glasses. “ is to us fools who decided to wear white to a blood bath.”
With a smile of her own Chrys laughs slightly while sipping her own drink. Upon closer inspection, Cassandra wasn’t just slim- no, she was muscle. She has an athletic sort build as if she could run track but also tackle someone. The realization happens to cause a small pigment of pink to dust her cheeks. Cursing herself for being a light weight and letting her mind wander, her glass is set gently down upon the bar counter with ease.
“ I do love your dress though. It suits you quite well. If we do have to keep doing these dinners- not that we won’t kill each other this time or any other time- white is a good color for you.”
This was strange. It felt so good to just go out, drink and talk to someone but with this atmosphere it was beginning to make her twitch. How long had it been since she wasn’t busy? Shaking her head her attention darts back to Cassandra.
“ So, tell me. How do you fit into all this? Are you someone’s great Aunt’s granddaughter’s sister? Or a cousin of a grandfather’s brothers mother?” She teases.
The Morello family was quite huge so it wasn’t to surprising Chrys didn’t know her.

Desert_Blossom · Jan 14, 2021

Vincenzo Salvatore

Vincenzo did not immediately move from his stance at the window when Rhys entered, but he did turn to face his capo. The don distractedly tilted his glass back and forth, sliding the ice around in the now empty cup as he listened, before nodding.

"Excellent. Thank you, Rhys. You can escort my daughters to the Crimson Shrine then, and I will follow with Tony in a separate vehicle." Vincenzo replied, pleased to see that his underboss had perfect timing as Tony joined them. "I believe we should be departing shortly. Are there any last concerns you'd like to voice before tonight's festivities?"

The Don was well aware of Tony's reservations about the plan, and while these reservations were not enough to sideline the arrangement, Vincenzo did want to be apprised of anything that might be troubling his men. Vincenzo was a confident and strong leader, but even the strongest leader could be caught unawares if his men felt that he was leading them into a trap and began doubting his decisions.

"I wouldn't have accepted Morello's invitation to this dinner if I didn't believe that it was the best way to protect this family." Vincenzo explained, speaking in regards to both his blood and mob family. "But I do not want to find out too late that my decisions are being second guessed..." He warned.

Vincenzo strode over to his desk, standing before his underboss and capo, setting them with a steady gaze. He glanced between the two, waiting to see if either would speak. Rhys didn't know the full extent of what the evening promised, but the Don figured he knew enough to form an opinion. While some Dons preferred for their men to follow them blindly without asking questions, Vincenzo Salvatore prided himself on being a big enough man to allow a select few of his men to speak their minds. It was lonely on top of the mountain, especially after the loss of his wife, and not all decisions should be made in a vacuum.

Concerned

His office