Chapter 8 - THE MAN WHO HAD BEEN ERASED
Matteo's recovery was slow.
He had spent years under a false identity, with limited freedom and inadequate access to independent advocates.
Medical professionals began evaluating his physical and psychological health.
Investigators reviewed the facility's records.
The evidence suggested he'd been confined after attempting to expose wrongdoing connected to Saint Agnes and its successor organizations.
Matteo told me what he remembered.
He'd discovered that donations intended for vulnerable children had been diverted.
Some records suggested that children had been transferred between institutions without proper oversight.
He'd tried to report the misconduct.
Then someone arranged a meeting near the East River.
He went alone.
He never came home.
“Vincent?” I asked.
Matteo looked down.
“I heard his voice.”
My jaw tightened.
“Daniel?”
He nodded slowly.
“He was there too.”
I closed my eyes.
Matteo continued.
“They told me you knew.”
I stared.
“What?”
“They said you agreed.”
My chest tightened.
“No.”
Matteo looked at me.
“They said you thought I was dangerous to the family.”
I began shaking.
“Matteo, I didn't know.”
He studied my face.
Then whispered:
“I wanted to believe that.”
I took his hand.
“I'm here now.”
He looked down.
“Seventeen years late.”
The words hurt.
Because they were true.
I didn't ask him to forgive me.
I didn't tell him to forget the past.
I stayed.
I listened.
And I promised to support whatever choices he made about his future.
Later, I visited Elena at the secure apartment.
She opened the door.
Mia ran toward me.
“Uncle Luca!”
I lifted her into my arms.
“Hello, boss.”
She grinned.
“Did you find your brother?”
I looked at Elena.
Her eyes filled.
I nodded.
“Yes.”
Mia clapped.
“I told you!”
I laughed through tears.
“You did.”
She touched my cheek.
“Is he happy?”
I swallowed.
“Not yet.”
She frowned.
“Why?”
“Because he's been hurt.”
Mia considered.
Then said:
“Maybe he needs a hug.”
May you like
I closed my eyes.
“Maybe he does, princess.”
