Chapter 14 - The Promise
Two weeks later, Clara and Leo were finally cleared to leave the hospital.
Roman had arranged for a private ambulance to transport them.
They were not going back to his glass penthouse in the city.
He had purchased a sprawling, heavily guarded estate in upstate New York.
It was surrounded by nature, far away from the noise and blood of the city.
As they rode in the back of the spacious vehicle, Clara held Leo tightly against her chest.
Roman sat across from them, watching his family with quiet intensity.
"Are you sure about this, Roman?" Clara asked, breaking the silence.
"Walking away from everything you built?"
Roman leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees.
"I built an empire of fear because I had nothing else to care about," he answered honestly.
"I thought power was the only thing that could keep me safe."
"But looking at him," Roman pointed to the sleeping infant, "I realize I was wrong."
"Love is a vulnerability, yes."
"But it is also a reason to live."
Clara reached out her free hand, and Roman took it instantly.
His grip was gentle, completely devoid of the violence he was known for.
"I am terrified, Roman," she admitted softly.
"I know," he replied.
"But I will spend the rest of my life making you feel safe."
"No more running."
"No more hiding."
"We are a family now."
The ambulance turned off the main highway, heading toward the snow-covered mountains.
For the first time in his life, Roman Silas felt a sense of peace.
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He had been the King of the Underworld.
But he was ready to just be a father.
