Chapter 9 - THE WOMAN WHO REFUSED HIS MONEY
Enzo offered to pay Gabe's entire debt.
Wren refused.
He stared at her.
"Why?"
"Because I don't want my brother's future tied to your generosity."
"It's not a loan."
"That doesn't change what it means."
Enzo leaned back.
"What do you want me to do?"
"Help us find a lawful solution."
Together with legal counsel, Gabe challenged the inflated debt and reported the coercive collection practices.
The original loan records were examined.
The fabricated penalties became part of the investigation into Salerno.
Wren continued working at Marchetti House under a written employment agreement that protected her professional independence.
She insisted on clear duties, appropriate clinical oversight, and the right to leave.
Enzo signed without argument.
Their relationship changed slowly.
They argued.
Often.
Wren left coffee cups in strange places.
Enzo complained about her boots.
She rearranged the rehabilitation room twice.
He rearranged it back.
One afternoon, she discovered that he had secretly ordered a new pair of boots for her.
Expensive ones.
Black leather.
Perfectly fitted.
Wren carried the box into his study.
"Absolutely not."
Enzo looked up.
"What?"
"These."
He glanced at the boots.
"Your old ones are falling apart."
"I know."
"They're dangerous."
"I know."
"Then what's the problem?"
Wren stared.
"You didn't ask."
Enzo closed his eyes.
Then nodded.
"You're right."
She looked surprised.
He continued.
"I should have asked."
Wren studied the boots.
Then smiled.
"For the record, they're gorgeous."
Enzo laughed.
She placed the box on the table.
"But next time, ask."
He nodded.
"Next time."
That evening, Wren found a small note beside her coffee mug.
Would you like the boots?
She laughed so hard Rosa came to investigate.
May you like
Wren wrote beneath it:
Yes. But only because you finally asked.
