CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTY TWO – POLITICAL TENSIONS

One evening, as they were closing up the shop, Joan finally worked up the courage to ask Maria about it. "The town seems... tense," she said carefully. "Is it always like this?" Maria sighed heavily, locking the front door before responding. "No, child. Things have been... difficult lately. The old order is changing, and not everyone is happy about it." Joan's curiosity was piqued. "What do you mean?" Maria gestured for Joan to sit, her face serious. "This town, like many in Sicily, has long been under the influence of certain... families. You understand?" Joan nodded, her throat dry. "The mafia." "Yes," Maria confirmed. "For years, it was the Russo family who held sway here. They were harsh, but predictable. People knew where they stood. But now..." She trailed off, looking troubled. Joan leaned forward, eager to hear more. "Now what?" "Now there's a new player," Maria said softly. "The Fratelli family. They're moving in on Russo territory, and it's causing... problems." Joan