Chapter 9 - THE WOMAN WHO REFUSED TO BE BOUGHT
The financial investigation revealed that Bennett Construction had been harmed by decades-old transactions involving Vittorio.
But the full legal picture was complicated.
Some claims were time-barred.
Others required further evidence.
Gabriel's attorneys recommended an independent review.
My father agreed.
I insisted that Bennett Construction have its own legal representation.
Gabriel supported that decision.
One afternoon, he offered to transfer a substantial amount of money into my personal account.
I stared.
“Why?”
He looked at me.
“Because your family suffered.”
I shook my head.
“Gabriel, I don't want your money.”
He frowned.
“It's not charity.”
“Then what is it?”
He hesitated.
I continued.
“I married you because I thought it would save my father's company.”
His expression changed.
“I know.”
“I won't spend the rest of my life wondering whether every kind thing you do is another transaction.”
Gabriel looked down.
Then nodded.
“You're right.”
He withdrew the offer.
Instead, the legal teams continued reviewing the financial claims.
My father retained control over his business decisions.
And I began rebuilding my own career.
Before the marriage, I'd worked as an architectural restoration specialist.
I loved old buildings.
Historic materials.
The stories hidden inside walls.
But I'd left my job when my father's company collapsed.
Now, I applied for a position with a preservation firm in Chicago.
I didn't tell Gabriel until after the interview.
When I did, he smiled.
“That's wonderful.”
I stared.
“You're not upset?”
He frowned.
“Why would I be?”
“Because I won't always be home.”
Gabriel looked at me.
“Catherine, I didn't marry you to keep you in a house.”
May you like
I smiled.
For the first time, I believed our marriage might become something real.
