Chapter 6 - THE UNCLE WHO WANTED CONTROL
Vincent's uncle, Dominic Romano, had never approved of grief.
He believed sadness was weakness.
He believed family loyalty meant obedience.
And he believed Vincent had become distracted.
Dominic arrived at the estate on Thursday morning.
He wore a dark suit.
His hair was silver.
His expression was cold.
“Vincent.”
His nephew nodded.
“Uncle.”
Dominic looked around.
“I hear you've been spending time at a diner.”
Vincent stared.
“Yes.”
“With the boy.”
“Yes.”
Dominic sighed.
“You have responsibilities.”
Vincent leaned back.
“I know.”
“Then act like it.”
Vincent's expression hardened.
“My son is my responsibility.”
Dominic laughed.
“Your son has specialists. Nannies. Doctors.”
“He also has a father.”
Dominic stared.
For a moment, neither spoke.
Then Dominic leaned forward.
“The men are questioning your priorities.”
Vincent looked at him.
“Let them.”
Dominic's expression changed.
“You're becoming soft.”
Vincent smiled faintly.
“Maybe.”
That afternoon, Emily arrived for her scheduled visit.
Dominic saw her in the hallway.
He looked her up and down.
“So you're the waitress.”
Emily stopped.
“Yes.”
He smiled coldly.
“Interesting.”
She held his gaze.
“Can I help you?”
Dominic laughed.
“Not likely.”
He walked away.
Emily watched him go.
Then turned toward Maria.
“Who was that?”
Maria sighed.
“Mr. Romano's uncle.”
Emily frowned.
“He seems charming.”
Maria laughed despite herself.
Later, Vincent found Emily in the playroom.
She was helping Luca build a cardboard castle.
Vincent sat beside them.
Emily looked at him.
“Your uncle doesn't like me.”
Vincent smiled faintly.
“He doesn't like anyone.”
She laughed.
“Good to know.”
May you like
Vincent watched Luca place a green dragon on top of the castle.
For the first time, he realized he no longer cared what Dominic thought.
