Chapter 10 - THE FATHER WHO CHOSE THE TRUTH
Gabriel met with federal investigators the following week.
He brought Isabella's notebook.
Financial records.
Property documents.
And evidence gathered by his legal team.
His attorney warned him that cooperation could expose his own past activities.
Gabriel listened.
Then nodded.
“I understand.”
For years, he'd tried to separate his daughter from the consequences of his empire.
Now he realized that secrecy had only made her more vulnerable.
He agreed to cooperate with lawful investigations into Vincent's activities and the family's businesses.
The process was painful.
Some associates turned against him.
Others distanced themselves.
Several contracts collapsed.
But Gabriel continued.
Meanwhile, Sophie began attending a bilingual school program that valued ASL and written English.
She made friends.
Joined an art club.
And started drawing birds in every notebook she owned.
Emma watched her grow more confident.
One afternoon, Sophie came home excited.
She ran to Gabriel.
I have a friend!
Gabriel smiled.
He signed back.
Tell me.
Sophie laughed.
His signing was still imperfect.
But it was improving.
She told him about a girl named Lily who loved painting.
Gabriel listened.
Really listened.
Emma stood nearby.
Watching.
Later, Gabriel approached her.
“I owe you an apology.”
Emma frowned.
“For what?”
“For assuming money could solve everything.”
She smiled faintly.
“You're learning.”
Gabriel nodded.
He hesitated.
“Emma.”
She looked up.
“I don't know what this is becoming.”
Her heart quickened.
He continued.
“But I know I look forward to seeing you every day.”
Emma swallowed.
“Gabriel—”
He raised a hand.
“I'm not asking you for anything.”
She looked at him.
He smiled softly.
“I just wanted you to know.”
May you like
Emma's eyes filled.
And for the first time in years, she allowed herself to imagine a future that included someone else.
