Salvatore listens in silence, his face a mask of grief and anger. He knows that he can't forgive this betrayal. The family member has crossed a line, and there is no going back."You speak of ambition," Salvatore says, his voice dangerously low. "But ambition without loyalty is a disease. Did you think I wouldn't find out? Did you think our bond meant so little?"Tears stream down the family member's face. "I was wrong, Salvatore. I let the hunger consume me. Please, I beg you, reconsider."Salvatore turns away, signaling to his men. "Take them away."As they are dragged away, the family member screams, "You're making a mistake! You'll regret this!"Salvatore doesn't respond. He watches them go, his heart a cold stone in his chest. He knows that this decision will haunt him for the rest of his days, but he believes it's the only way to maintain order and respect within his organization.Later that night, alone in his study, Salvatore pours himself a glass of whiskey. The weight of his decision presses down on him, suffocating him. He thinks of the shared memories, the laughter, the loyalty that once existed. Now, all that remains is a bitter taste of betrayal.He raises his glass, a silent toast to the family member he has condemned. "May you find peace in the next life," he whispers, "because I doubt you'll find it in this one."The next day, word spreads like wildfire. The family member has been dealt with, their betrayal punished in the harshest way possible. Fear and respect ripple through the ranks. Salvatore has proven that no one is above justice, not even family.But as Salvatore looks out over his domain, he can't shake the feeling that he has lost something precious. He has won, but at what cost? The victory feels hollow, the power empty. He is left with the crushing realization that sometimes, the price of justice is far too high.
