Chapter 68

“Thank you, SignorBurato,” Marco said.

“My pleasure.”

On the way back to the castle, Marco said, “Might as well get started.” He took his cell phone and called the contractor.

“Well?” I said when the call ended.

“Weren’t you listening?”

“Not really. I was sort of looking at the buildings and not paying attention.”

“SignorMarconi is coming to see me at five.”

“He must not be very busy.”

“New construction slows down in winter around here.”

“What next?”

“I think we’ll go to the office and check my uncle’s desktop computer. While I do that, you can do a little snooping in the desk and files in his office.”

“Sure, but maybe we ought to detour by our apartment and change.”

“Yeah, can’t have the new capo dressing like a peasant.”

“Have you ever seen an actual peasant?”

“Only in paintings.”

“Peasants don’t wear khakis, turtlenecks, and expensive leather jackets like ours.”

“You think?”