Chapter 12: Al Moretti's Funeral
"Insured in certain hope, of the resurrection to eternal life to our lord Jesus Christ. We commend to almighty God our brother, Alonzo Joseph Moretti, and we commit his body to the ground. Ashes to ashes, dust to dust, the lord bless him and keep him. The lord make his face, to shine upon him, and be gracious. The lord lift up his contents upon him, and give him peace." The priest preached to the crowd huddled around the casket.
The crowd was dressed in black, with some of the women crying. The sun was hidden behind grey clouds and the forecast for the day was rain. The priest preached a little more and then the casket began to lower into the ground. The crowd split up and most of the people headed to their cars.
"Hi, Father Rotelli do you remember me?" Richie asked as his wife and sister went to the car to leave.
"Ahh yes, Richie Copperelli right? Yes I remember you from when you were a little boy. How are you?" The old priest replied.
"I'm good, I just wanted to say hello. I got to go; it was nice talking to you." Richie answered.
"Ok well bye." Father Rotelli responded.
"See you around." Richie yelled as he left and entered a black mafia sentinel.
Dickie, Marco, and Sergio were inside waiting. Sergio started the car and began driving while Dickie started talking.
"Ok we're all set for our trip to Vice City. Your cousin Mikey called. He said he'll send someone to pick us up at the airport when we arrive there. We leave in two days." Dickie stated.
"Good work." Richie replied, and then turned to Marco who was sitting beside him. "I appreciate all the work you've done for me lately; you're a good collector and a good earner. That's why you're going with us to Vice."
"I know Richie, and I appreciate it." Marco replied. "Why are we going to Vice City though?"
"I got to go straighten out some sht down there. Since I'm out of the can I need some product for my dealers to sell. My cousin Mikey is a good guy, but for some reason the dumb ass is having major problems down there. I need you guys for extra muscle." Richie answered.
"Oh, I see. I'll pack my bags." Marco responded.
Sergio drove a little more and then parked in front of Richie's bakery. The four gangsters got out and went inside to have some breakfast. Richie began thinking about Al Moretti and how he died. He knew that could have just as easily been him in the casket, if Marco wouldn't have saved his life.