Chapter 5 - The Sanctuary of the Estate
By three o'clock that afternoon, a fleet of five black armored SUVs stood waiting in the private subterranean garage of Saint Jude’s Hospital.
Under Luca’s direct orders, Emma and Baby Lily were discharged under top-tier private security. Derek and Brittany were taken into custody by Marco’s team for questioning regarding their unexpected knowledge of the Moretti lineage.
Emma sat in the plush leather backseat of Luca’s primary vehicle, cradling Lily against her chest. Next to her sat Luca, his long legs crossed, his posture relaxed yet vigilant as he reviewed secure files on his tablet.
"Mr. Moretti," Emma spoke up softly, her voice filled with apprehension. "Where are you taking us? I have a small apartment in Queens—"
"Your apartment is no longer safe, Emma," Luca interrupted gently, looking up from his screen. "If Brittany Hale knows what that pendant represents, then the people behind her know too. My estate in Upstate New York is guarded by thirty men and private surveillance. You and Lily will stay there."
An hour later, the iron gates of the Moretti estate swung open, revealing a breathtaking stone mansion surrounded by acres of thick pine forest and rolling hills.
As the car pulled up to the grand front entrance, staff in neat dark uniforms stepped out to receive them. Luca stepped out first, extending his broad, warm hand to help Emma down from the SUV.
May you like
"Welcome to your home for as long as you need it, Emma," Luca said softly.
For the first time in days, looking at the formidable man standing beside her, Emma felt a strange wave of profound relief wash over her broken spirit.
