[ CHAPTER THIRTY-FOUR ] - ( THE PRIEST OF SANTA MARIA ) - { PT. 1 }

{ PT.  1 } - The white Mercedes reached the gates of Hotel Tramonto and made its way steadily along a narrow lane skirted by vast, pristine lawns where golfers teed off in the distance. Inside the car, the men's faces wore severe expressions like armour. As the hotel drew nearer, its impressive gothic facade of sun-yellow stone formed a castle with turrets of beige brick and terracotta-coloured rooftops. A large staircase with stone balustrades led the visitor to the hotel entrance. Benito parked across two spaces as if making his territory. Vincenzo, Alessandro, you come with me. Benito, keep the motor running. Benito nodded. Boss. The men strutted to the hotel with Don Primo in the lead and entered the reception area carrying with them a palpable air of foreboding. A cold shudder coursed through the receptionits body and her hairs pricked up like the quills of a porcupine. She straightened her posture, visible gulping as they approached. Yes, sirs, how can I help you? Her voice quivered. We're visiting some friends of ours who are staying here, said Don Primo. Do you know their room number? She asked. No. He removed a wad of cash from his wallet and placed it on my desk. How about we give you their names and you tells us where they are? She looked at the money, then back at Don Primo, feigning a smile that tried to conceal the fear in her eyes. What are their names, Sir? Christiano Abbadelli and Angelica de Santis. She typed the names on the key-board.          _______________________________________________________ 

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