Chapter 11 - THE MAN WHO LEARNED TO LET GO
Roman began changing the way he ran his businesses.
It was difficult.
Some associates resisted.
Others walked away.
Several contracts collapsed.
But he refused to keep operating through intimidation and hidden arrangements.
He hired independent auditors.
Strengthened workplace safety procedures.
Cooperated with investigators examining the warehouse operation.
And began separating legitimate businesses from criminal activity.
He knew none of it erased his past.
He also knew change required more than promises.
Adeline watched from a distance.
She was still recovering.
Still grieving.
Still trying to understand what the truth about her father meant for her future.
Roman visited her one afternoon.
She was sitting in the garden with a notebook.
“What are you writing?” he asked.
She smiled faintly.
“A plan.”
“For what?”
“A woodworking studio.”
Roman looked surprised.
Adeline laughed.
“My father taught me everything he knew.”
She looked down.
“I used to make small furniture with him. Shelves. Boxes. Toys.”
Roman smiled.
“Why did you stop?”
“After he died, I couldn't stand the smell of sawdust.”
She paused.
“But now I think I want it back.”
Roman sat beside her.
“That sounds wonderful.”
She studied him.
“You're not going to offer to buy me a building?”
He laughed.
“I was considering it.”
She raised an eyebrow.
“Roman.”
He smiled.
“I'll behave.”
She laughed.
For the first time, they were simply two people talking about a future.
Not an employer and employee.
Not a powerful man and a poor maid.
May you like
Just Roman.
And Adeline.
