Chapter 9 - Healing from the Storm
A month passed since the night of the attack. The Moretti Estate had been completely repaired, the scars of bullets and explosives replaced by fresh marble and new glass. The city's underground had fallen into a profound, respectful silence; Leo Moretti’s position as the absolute ruler of the city was now completely unquestioned.
But inside the house, the atmosphere had shifted into something beautiful.
Bella sat in the sunlit conservatory, reading a book, when Francesca walked in, looking healthier and happier than ever. The old woman sat down beside her, taking Bella’s hand in her own.
"You brought life back to this house, Bella," Francesca said softly. "For ten years, since my husband died, this house was nothing but a tomb of shadows and business strategies. Leo was a machine. But look at him now."
Bella looked through the glass window out onto the lawn. Leo was standing there, talking to Marco—who was recovering well with his arm in a sling. As Leo caught Bella looking at him, a warm, genuine smile broke across his handsome face—a smile that used to be a myth in this city. He waved at her before returning to his conversation.
"He loves you, my dear," Francesca whispered. "And more importantly, you saved his humanity, just like you saved my groceries in the rain."
May you like
Bella blushed, her heart swelling with deep affection. "I love him too, Francesca. I never thought a simple act of helping someone would lead me to the love of my life."
"Good," Francesca smiled, patting her hand. "Because tonight, he has something very important to ask you."
