Chapter 8 - A New Dawn
The morning sun filtered through the tall windows, casting a warm glow over the breakfast table.
For the first time since Josie had arrived, the atmosphere in the house was genuinely light.
Mila was eating her pancakes, chattering happily about a butterfly she had seen in the garden.
Constantine sat at the head of the table, dressed in a simple black sweater, looking more like a father than a kingpin.
"I am transitioning the family business into legitimate real estate," he announced casually, taking a sip of his black coffee.
Josie nearly choked on her orange juice, staring at him in shock.
"You're stepping down?" she asked, her eyes wide with disbelief.
"I am evolving," he corrected smoothly, a hint of amusement in his dark eyes.
"A man with a daughter and a beautiful woman to care for cannot afford to end up in a federal prison."
Mila clapped her hands, oblivious to the gravity of the conversation, and looked at Josie.
"Does that mean you're going to marry Papa and stay forever?" the little girl asked innocently.
Constantine choked on his coffee this time, coughing as a rare blush crept up his neck.
May you like
Josie laughed, a bright, clear sound that filled the grand dining room with life.
"We'll see, sweetie," Josie said, winking at the flustered crime boss.
