CHAPTER NINETY SIX – THE CAPOREGIME

For a moment, Joan was too shocked to speak. Alessandro's cold eyes met hers, a hint of amusement in their depths. "Dr. Keppler," he said smoothly, "it's been a while." Joan found her voice, professionalism kicking in despite her shock. "Mr. Fratelli, this is... unexpected. Please, come in and have a seat." As Alessandro settled into the chair across from her, Joan's mind raced. Why was he here? How had he arranged this? "I suppose you're wondering why I'm here," Alessandro said, as if reading her thoughts. Joan nodded, trying to regain her composure. "Yes, I am. Mr. Fratelli, with all due respect, why have you come back into my life? And how did you manage to be assigned to me specifically?" Alessandro's lips quirked in a humorless smile. "Let's just say I have my ways, Dr. Keppler. As for why I'm here... well, that's a more complicated question." Joan felt a flare of frustration at his vague response. "Mr. Fratelli, I need to know why you're here if I'm to provide any meaningf