Chapter 11 - THE MAN WHO FINALLY SLEPT
The investigation continued for months.
Dante faced criminal charges connected to fraud, stolen property, and conspiracy.
Sal cooperated with investigators.
Northbridge's operations were shut down.
Several legitimate Falcone subsidiaries underwent independent audits.
Dominic also faced scrutiny over his own past activities.
He began separating lawful businesses from criminal operations and addressing outstanding legal obligations.
It cost him money.
Influence.
And relationships he'd once considered permanent.
But he didn't complain.
One evening, I found him asleep at his desk.
His head rested on his folded arms.
A half-finished cup of coffee sat beside him.
I smiled.
For once, the roles were reversed.
I quietly placed a blanket over his shoulders.
He stirred.
“Gemma?”
“Go back to sleep.”
He opened one eye.
“Are you giving me orders?”
“Yes.”
He smiled faintly.
“Dangerous habit.”
I laughed.
Then he reached for my hand.
“Thank you.”
I looked at him.
“For the blanket?”
“For staying.”
My smile faded.
“Dominic…”
He sat upright.
“I know I've asked too much of you.”
I swallowed.
He continued.
“And I know I can't repay what you've done.”
I shook my head.
“You don't have to.”
He looked at me.
“Then what do you want?”
I hesitated.
Then whispered:
“A life where nobody has to collapse from exhaustion to prove they're loyal.”
May you like
Dominic nodded slowly.
“Then let's build one.”
