THE MAFIA BOSS HAD NOT LAUGHED IN NINE YEARS—UNTIL HIS SECRETARY SAT IN HIS CHAIR, MOCKED HIM IN FRONT OF THE ENTIRE FLOOR, AND ACCIDENTALLY REOPENED THE MYSTERY OF HIS BROTHER’S DEATH

Clara becomes COO at independent Midwest Infrastructure Partners? We need plausible.

Let's use Harlow Strategy Group, operational risk consulting. She becomes Managing Partner? She had admin->chief of staff->strategy. Could be recruited as COO of regional hospitality/logistics company. Fine.

Matteo does not interfere.

First months hard.

She struggles imposter syndrome.

Matteo does not rescue.

She succeeds.

Marriage equal.

Then Matteo suffers heart attack? Too dramatic. Could be panic about mortality. Maybe minor cardiac arrhythmia, not needed.

Elena gets ill? Could deepen.

Maybe chapter13 tension: Vescari Holdings offered hostile deal / old underworld rumor. But mystery over. Better family drama.

Marco wants Matteo’s younger cousin Luca? Hmm.

We can focus on Matteo considering retirement/step back. Board wants succession. He fears company without him. Clara calls pattern. He appoints independent CEO? This is growth.

Matteo transitions executive chairman after 25 years, promotes nonfamily COO Daniel? Daniel is controller, too junior. Margaret? Not established. Let's create Isabel Moreno, COO with 12 years. Promotes.

Matteo learns empire survives.

His laugh ordinary.

Elena’s health declines, dies? Maybe not yet.

Clara's ex Evan dies? Not needed.