Chapter 13 - THE CHOICE THAT COST HIM POWER
Enzo's decision to leave organized crime was neither simple nor painless.
He worked with attorneys and authorities to address past conduct and separate his legitimate business interests from criminal activity.
Some associates resisted.
Others walked away.
Enzo lost money.
Influence.
And relationships he'd once considered permanent.
But he continued.
Wren did not make the decision for him.
She supported his efforts while maintaining her own boundaries.
One evening, Enzo asked her whether she regretted becoming involved with him.
Wren considered.
"Sometimes."
He looked down.
She continued.
"Your life is complicated."
Enzo nodded.
"I know."
"But complicated isn't the same as hopeless."
He looked up.
She smiled.
"And you're learning."
Enzo laughed softly.
"Slowly."
"Very slowly."
Meanwhile, Gabe completed his vocational training and found work as an electrical technician.
His legal issues connected to the debt were resolved through appropriate proceedings.
Wren's own finances improved.
She moved into a small apartment she loved.
She bought a used car.
And she began saving for additional nursing education.
Enzo visited often.
He never assumed he could stay.
He always asked.
One evening, Wren opened the door to find him holding a paper bag.
"What's that?"
"Dinner."
She smiled.
"Did you cook?"
Enzo hesitated.
"Define cook."
She laughed.
Inside the bag were two sandwiches and a container of soup.
Wren kissed him.
May you like
"Perfect."
And Enzo realized that the life he'd once dismissed as ordinary was the life he now wanted most.
