A King Amongst Men (Don Corleone-1945)
Time to greet Brasi. A rare pleasure.
"Luca, how are you"?
Brasi sways from foot to foot.
"I am well Don Corleone. And on this the day of your daughter's wedding let me say may your first child, I'm sorry I mean your first grandchild. May it be a masculine child.".
I extend my hand regally.
"Thank you, Luca. I appreciate that greatly. Your service to the family is always appreciated.".
A pause.
"Don Corleone, may I ask is there any way I may be of service to you on this day?"
I too pause.
"No Luca, not today. Thank you for asking".
A bow of the head.
"I understand Don Corleone".
He leaves quietly. No need for lengthy goodbyes. We know each other that well.
A day full of favors and finally someone offering a favor in return.
What a joy it is to control someone so completely.
Still the child, the infant. An infamy. Nothing to be done though. He was dead already. And the woman too. At least he saved Brasi's life from the retaliation afterwards. A lesson learned- that is easier when the victims don't have relations. Isn't it better that at least one of them lived?
Besides the other two were Irish. Not his people. What a tale from the midwife.
He knows Brasi's nature. It is implacable.
But he has taught him respect. And fear. But not through terror. Instead, he has taught Brasi the ways of the world (As well as what little decency he has) through a stern yet regal cordiality.
Awe. That is his tool with Brasi.
As he said- what is it to control yourself? And control others.
