Chapter 10: The Decision
“But even as I work to transform our businesses, to build something that could withstand scrutiny, that could be acceptable in the world your daughter will grow up in, I can’t erase who I’ve been. What I’ve done.”
“And if I accept your offer,” I asked, forcing myself to meet his intense gaze.
“If Lily and I become part of your life, how do you protect us from that past? From the enemies you’ve made? From the violence you’ve caused?”
Dante leaned forward.
His eyes never leaving mine.
“With everything I have. Every resource. Every connection. Every ounce of power I’ve accumulated. You would be untouchable. Both of you.”
“No one is untouchable,” I countered.
“You just said the Vega cartel.”
“The Vega cartel is one concern among many,” he interrupted.
“And they’re being dealt with. By this time next year, their influence in this city will be negligible.”
Something in his tone made me shiver.
“Dealt with how?”
He smiled thinly.
“Best you don’t concern yourself with those details, cara mia.”
“But that’s just it,” I said, frustration rising.
“How can I make this decision when there’s so much you won’t or can’t tell me? How can I trust that you’re really changing, really creating a safer future for us, when you’re still operating in shadows and violence?”
Dante was silent for a long moment.
His expression thoughtful.
“You’re right,” he said finally.
“Trust requires transparency. And you deserve to understand exactly what you’d be agreeing to.”
He stood abruptly, offering his hand.
“Come with me. There’s something I want to show you.”
Curiosity overcoming caution, I took his hand and followed.
He led me to a smaller room off the main living area.
Inside, there was a single monitor and a filing cabinet.
He opened a drawer and pulled out a thick folder.
“These are the plans,” he said.
“Timelines. Financial projections. Legal strategies. Everything I’ve been working toward for the past year.”
He handed me the folder.
“You can keep this. Read it. Share it with a lawyer if you want. I want you to know exactly what you’re getting into.”
I stared at the folder in my hands.
Heavy.
Real.
“This is…”
“This is my future,” he said.
“Our future, if you’ll have me.”
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