"I don't have to, I know." His voice stays soft and gentle, maybe slightly roughened with emotion. "But I wanted to. Your support has always meant a great deal to me."

He deliberately put a smile on his face, knowing that it would be audible in his tone. "So how are things going with you? Is the Signore still being a lovable tyrant?" No, he was not going to ask about her friend Marcello.