Chapter 3 - The Decade of Lies
Damiano set the child down gently in the corner. "Close your eyes, piccola."
He drew a combat knife and sliced through the heavy zip-ties binding Clara’s wrists and ankles. The moment she was free, she didn't collapse. She lunged forward, grabbing Damiano by the lapels of his suit, her hands trembling violently.
"Renato," she gasped, her voice raw. "It was always Renato, Damiano. He killed your father. He drove me away."
"I know," Damiano said, his voice a low, dangerous rumble. He pulled her against his chest, the scent of vanilla and copper filling his senses. "Why didn't you come to me?"
"Because he threatened to kill you!" Clara cried softly, burying her face in his neck. "Twenty years ago, his father poisoned yours. Ten years ago, Renato found out I knew. He told me if I stayed, he would detonate the car we drove in. I ran to save you."
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Damiano looked over at the little girl, who was obediently keeping her eyes shut. "And her?"
Clara pulled back, her amber eyes shining with tears. "Her name is Elara. She’s three years old. And she is yours, Damiano."
