In the following months after her breakup with Esposito, Nikki was in an especially foul mood. The result was more frequent violent outbursts and with increasingly ruthless behavior. With the prospects of taking over Esposito’s business out the window, she had to double her efforts in her own. She was dead set on putting him out of business as payback. Stefania had repeatedly attempted to contact Nikki, but she ignored her calls and texts. She ignored them in part because it would hurt too much, but also because Nikki wanted Esposito explain to her why they were no longer together. One thing Nikki was pleased about was how her new captains were operating. Business was good, but of course, she wanted more. She encouraged more business and more ruthlessness when it came to unpaid debts. Once summer arrived, Nikki had more time to devote to becoming more active herself, although she understood that meant picking and choosing when to get involved to avoid staying off police radar.