Chapter 10 - THE PRICE OF BETRAYAL
The investigation into Vincent and Salerno expanded.
Authorities examined the attempted sedative administration, the forged documents, the security breach, and the threats against Sophia and Emma.
Vincent's role became clearer.
He had provided access to confidential information.
Helped prepare unauthorized property transfers.
And attempted to silence the only witness who had seen him tampering with Alessandro's tea.
Salerno had financed the scheme.
His goal was to gain control of several valuable properties and weaken Alessandro's organization.
The evidence was substantial.
But the case required careful legal handling.
Sophia cooperated with investigators through her attorney.
Emma was not subjected to repeated informal questioning.
Her initial statements were documented with appropriate safeguards for a child her age.
Alessandro also faced difficult questions about his own operations.
He had spent years building a criminal empire.
Now he could no longer pretend that violence and secrecy were problems only when used against him.
One evening, Nicholas found him in the study.
“What are you thinking?”
Alessandro looked toward the fireplace.
“About Lucia.”
Nicholas nodded.
Alessandro continued.
“She used to tell me this house was too dark.”
He smiled sadly.
“I thought she meant the furniture.”
Nicholas said nothing.
Alessandro looked at him.
“I want out.”
Nicholas stared.
“Out?”
“Of the criminal side.”
Nicholas hesitated.
“You know what that means.”
Alessandro nodded.
“Legal consequences. Financial losses. People who won't forgive me.”
He looked toward the hallway.
“I'm tired of building a life that requires children to hide in walls.”
Nicholas studied him.
Then nodded.
“Then we'll need lawyers.”
May you like
Alessandro smiled faintly.
“For once, that's exactly what I want.”
