The softness disappeared as if it had never existed. His posture straightened, his expression cooled, and the distance returned. He was once again the Don, untouchable and controlled. The silver lighter went still in his hand for one beat, then slipped into his jacket pocket.
After exchanging a few brief words with the doctor, he turned to leave.
At the door, he paused.
Then he looked back at me one last time.
"Get some rest," he said.
There was a slight pause before he added, his tone firm, almost like a warning.
"And don't think your… special arrangement gives you any privileges inside my Family."
His eyes held mine, steady and unreadable.
"Everyone is treated equally. Everything follows the code."
With that, he walked out, the door closing softly behind him, leaving the room colder than before.
The doctor glanced at the smile I was forcing onto my face and let out a light, teasing chuckle, like he could see straight through it.
"Your boss already left," he said casually. "No need to push yourself to keep smiling like that anymore."
I didn't respond.