~Salvatore's POV
I looked at Elsie for a moment longer than I should have. I turned slightly toward Matteo.
"We should let her rest," I said. "No more business discussion here."
Matteo nodded immediately, putting the cigarette he had been holding away without argument.
"Yes, boss," he replied.
He glanced once at Elsie, then back at me, like he understood the message without me saying more, and that was enough.
I looked back at her again.
"You should rest," I said, softer this time. "Come down later for breakfast."
She nodded slowly.
"Okay," she replied.
I did not stay longer after that. Matteo and I left the room together, the door closing quietly behind us. The hallway outside was long and silent as usual, but I could feel Matteo's presence beside me as we walked. I adjusted my steps slightly, then placed a hand on his shoulder, stopping him for a second.
"Tell the men," I said, my voice low, "no smoking around her again."
