Chapter 12 - THE WOMAN WHO TAUGHT HIM TO STAY
Daniel Cross was arrested.
Investigators pursued charges related to the kidnapping, financial crimes, and the conspiracy surrounding Claire's death.
The case became one of the largest criminal investigations involving the Mercer organization.
Cole cooperated with authorities concerning Daniel's crimes and began addressing his own role in the businesses Daniel had exploited.
The process was difficult.
Some assets were frozen.
Several companies were investigated.
Cole's reputation suffered.
But he made a decision.
He would no longer build a life in which his son had to fear the people around him.
Elena returned to work after taking time off to care for Eli.
Cole met her in the garden.
“Mrs. Bennett.”
She smiled.
“You can call me Elena.”
He nodded.
“Elena.”
For a moment, they stood in silence.
Then Cole said:
“I owe you an apology.”
She frowned.
“For what?”
“For allowing my house to become a place where your son felt he had to lie to protect mine.”
Elena's eyes softened.
“Eli loves Noah.”
Cole smiled faintly.
“I know.”
She continued.
“And Noah loves him.”
Cole looked toward the play structure.
The boys were chasing each other with foam swords.
Noah was laughing.
Cole's expression softened.
Then he looked at Elena.
“I don't know how to thank you.”
She shook her head.
“You don't have to.”
He hesitated.
“Would you consider staying?”
Elena looked surprised.
“As a housekeeper?”
Cole swallowed.
“No.”
Her heart began racing.
May you like
He continued.
“As someone I'd like to know better.”
