Chapter 9 - the truth in the ledger
The quiet of the penthouse suite was peaceful when Dominic returned that evening.
Emma sat at the dining table, holding a small, leather-bound notebook that Dominic had brought back from Daniel's private agency vault. Lily was asleep in her bedroom, her lavender ribbon still tied neatly around Mr. Buttons' ear.
Emma turned the yellowed pages of her late husband's personal journal. Tears flowed freely down her cheeks, but they were no longer tears of fear—they were tears of profound closure and peace.
On the final page of the journal, written in Daniel's neat handwriting, were the words:
If you are reading this, Emma, it means I am gone. Do not be afraid. I have left you in the hands of the only man in New York who possesses the honor to stand against the dark. Dominic Moretti is a man of his word. Trust him. Live your life, protect our sweet Lily, and know that I loved you both with every breath I had.
Emma closed the notebook gently, pressing it against her chest as a soft sob escaped her lips.
Dominic walked into the room, having removed his trench coat. He stopped near the table, watching her with quiet, protective affection.
"He loved you very much, Emma," Dominic said softly.
Emma stood up from the table, walking slowly over to where the tall, muscular Mafia boss stood. She looked up into his rugged, handsome face, seeing the deep, unspoken vow he had carried for three long years.
"He trusted you with his whole heart," Emma whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "And today... I understand why."
She reached up on her tiptoes, wrapping her arms around Dominic’s neck. Dominic’s broad, powerful arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her close against his broad chest, holding her as if she were the most precious treasure in the world.
May you like
Emma rested her head against his shoulder, feeling the steady, warm rhythm of his heartbeat beneath his shirt.
"You don't have to carry the world alone anymore, Emma," Dominic murmured low into her hair. "I am right here."
