Chapter 18 - A New Beginning
Two weeks later, the medical wing was empty. The children were moved upstairs to the grand nursery, which had been entirely remodeled.
It was no longer a sterile hospital room. It was a chaotic, beautiful playroom filled with laughter, scattered blocks, and the sound of tiny footsteps. Lily, Leo, and Luca had become completely inseparable. The twins treated Lily like their savior and their big sister, fiercely protective of her even though she was the one who had saved them.
Julian stood in the doorway, leaning against the frame, watching the three children build a massive tower out of wooden blocks. He wore a simple grey sweater and slacks, his weapons locked away in a safe he hadn't opened in days.
Clara walked up beside him, carrying a tray of juice boxes. She wore a beautiful, simple silk dress, her hair flowing freely over her shoulders. The poverty and desperation that had shadowed her face were gone, replaced by a radiant, peaceful glow.
“They’re going to knock that tower over in exactly ten seconds,” Julian observed with a soft smile.
“Five,” Clara corrected, leaning against his side.
Right on cue, Luca threw a stuffed dinosaur at the tower, sending the blocks crashing to the floor in a symphony of giggles and shrieks.
Julian slipped his arm around Clara’s waist, pulling her close. “I am stepping down,” he said quietly.
May you like
Clara looked up at him, surprised. “From the syndicate?”
“From the violence,” Julian clarified. “I am transitioning the family into legitimate logistics and real estate. I have handed the street operations over to the capos. I don't want this darkness touching them. Or you.”
