Chapter 11 - THE EMPIRE THAT HAD TO CHANGE
The investigation into Bellini Holdings expanded rapidly.
Authorities examined shipping records, financial transfers, and communications connected to the warehouse explosion.
Several Bellini employees cooperated.
Others refused.
Vittorio Bellini denied wrongdoing.
But the evidence continued growing.
I faced a different problem.
My own empire.
For years, I'd told myself that controlling criminal operations was the only way to protect my family.
But Matteo had died trying to expose corruption.
Sofia had spent six years hiding.
Leo had nearly been killed.
And Grace had been threatened simply for doing her job.
I could no longer pretend that fear was the same thing as safety.
I called Luca into my room.
“I'm restructuring the businesses.”
He stared.
“Boss?”
“The legitimate companies stay.”
“And the rest?”
I looked at him.
“We cooperate with investigators and shut down unlawful operations.”
Luca was silent.
Then he said:
“That will make enemies.”
I nodded.
“I know.”
He studied me.
“Why now?”
I looked toward the window.
Then answered:
“Because my nephew deserves a future that doesn't look like mine.”
The process wasn't simple.
I had to accept responsibility for decisions I'd made.
Some associates turned against me.
Several business interests were sold.
Others were placed under independent oversight.
I worked with attorneys and authorities to resolve outstanding legal issues.
It cost me money.
Power.
And the loyalty of men who had never truly been loyal to anything except fear.
But every time I considered turning back, I remembered Leo.
May you like
And Matteo.
And Grace.
