Chapter 13 - THE FATHER WHO LEARNED TO LISTEN
Salvatore remained in New York for several months.
He and Clara spent time together.
Not as a mafia boss and his daughter.
But as two people trying to rebuild a damaged relationship.
They walked through Central Park.
Visited museums.
Ate pizza in small restaurants.
Talked about her mother.
About Sicily.
About the years they'd lost.
One afternoon, Salvatore asked:
“Would you ever come home?”
Clara looked at him.
“Maybe.”
He nodded.
“Only if you want to.”
She smiled.
“I know.”
He looked toward the lake.
“I used to think protecting you meant deciding everything for you.”
Clara was quiet.
Salvatore continued.
“I was wrong.”
She took his hand.
“You were.”
He smiled sadly.
“I know.”
Then she leaned against his shoulder.
“But you're listening now.”
Salvatore kissed the top of her head.
May you like
“And I intend to keep listening.”
For the first time, Clara no longer felt she had to choose between her father and her freedom.
