Chapter 14 - THE MAN WHO CHOSE A DIFFERENT LIFE
Alberto was arrested.
Dr. Mercer cooperated with investigators.
Rafael was cleared of involvement in the original crimes after records showed his identity had been used without his knowledge.
Tomaso helped unravel the financial structures that had concealed Alberto's activities.
The debt assigned to my family was declared unenforceable.
I was free.
Truly free.
Cedric began restructuring the Spedaro businesses.
He cooperated with authorities.
Separated legitimate operations from criminal activity.
And accepted that leaving his father's world would require time, money, and accountability.
He also changed doctors.
Resumed physical therapy.
And began making decisions about his care without interference.
Some days were good.
Some were difficult.
His mobility improved in certain ways.
Other limitations remained.
But he stopped measuring his worth by whether he could stand.
One evening, we sat in the interior garden.
He looked at me.
"Do you regret coming back?"
I smiled.
"No."
He studied me.
"Even after everything?"
I took his hand.
"Especially after everything."
He swallowed.
"Analisa."
"Yes?"
"I love you."
My heart stopped.
He looked terrified.
The great Cedric Spedaro.
Terrified.
May you like
I smiled.
"I love you too."
