STOLEN INNOCENCE

What is innocence?

Some would say innocence is a state of purity, untouched by the complexities of the world, where trust reigns supreme and the heart remains unburdened by cynicism or suspicion.

Others would argue that innocence is a fleeting illusion, a veil that shields us from the harsh truths of reality, blinding us to the complexities of human nature and the moral ambiguities that define our existence.

Whatever it was, Leonardo lost his on this very sad and life changing day.

His instructor, Enzo, was pushed to the ground by Matteo.

“What is going on?”, he asked his grandfather.

“Nothing, yet. Shoot the man with a bag over his head”, Don Vito said.

Leonardo’s vision blurred for a second. Shock ran through him.

“What…what?”, he asked.

“You heard me boy”, Don Vito said, his smiles and playful expression dropped.

“Do I have to?”, Leonardo asked.

“Okay, I guess you don’t understand the gravity of the situation. For your benefit, I’d give you an explanation