Chapter 13 - THE NIGHT GABRIEL CHOSE HIS WIFE
Marcus Vale was arrested after investigators gathered evidence relating to financial misconduct, obstruction, and intimidation.
The legal process was complicated.
Multiple companies were involved.
Some records were decades old.
But the investigation had reached a point where prosecutors were prepared to bring charges.
Gabriel held a meeting with the board of Rook Harbor Holdings.
He announced a comprehensive compliance review and the suspension of several questionable business arrangements.
He also committed the company to cooperating with lawful investigations and addressing verified harms connected to its operations.
Some directors objected.
One stood.
“You're going to destroy the company your father built.”
Gabriel looked at him.
“No.”
He paused.
“I'm going to find out what part of it deserves to survive.”
That evening, Gabriel returned home exhausted.
Avery was waiting in the garden.
He stopped when he saw her.
“Hello.”
She smiled.
“Hello.”
He sat beside her.
For a moment, neither spoke.
Then he said:
“I may lose a great deal of money.”
Avery looked at him.
“I know.”
“Some of the business relationships won't survive.”
“I know.”
He stared toward the trees.
“I spent years believing my job was to preserve everything my father left me.”
Avery took his hand.
“And now?”
He looked at her.
“Now I think my job is to decide what I shouldn't pass on.”
Her eyes filled.
Gabriel turned toward her.
“Avery.”
“Yes?”
“I love you.”
She smiled through tears.
“I know.”
He laughed softly.
“Still terrible delivery?”
“Improving.”
He grinned.
Then she whispered:
“I love you too.”
He went still.
“What?”
She laughed.
“You heard me.”
He pulled her gently into his arms.
For the first time, their marriage felt like something they had chosen together.
Not a contract.
Not a rescue.
May you like
Not a debt.
Love.
