Chapter 14
The following morning brought crisp autumn air and brilliant golden sunshine.
The federal prosecutor’s office officially released the public exoneration of Joanne Hughes.
Headlines across national news outlets flashed with the details of Arthur Kensington’s downfall and the vindication of the unjustly accused housemaid.
In the grand kitchen, Chef Gerard was whistling while prepping ingredients for dinner.
Clara walked in wearing a silk blouse and tailored trousers, holding a steaming mug of coffee.
“Did you see the front page of the New York Times?” Gerard asked, beaming with pride.
“I did,” Clara smiled. “Mom’s name is finally clean.”
“And the people who framed her are facing life behind bars,” Gerard added, sliding a tray of fresh pastries into the oven. “Justice Italian style.”
Just then, Damian walked into the kitchen.
He was dressed in a sharp charcoal suit, looking every bit the ruthless syndicate leader, but his eyes were fixed entirely on Clara.
“We have a meeting with the state governor at noon,” Damian announced, leaning against the counter. “He wants to discuss the new community foundation funded by Arthur’s seized assets.”
“I’ll grab my briefcase,” Clara said.
“No rush,” Damian said, stepping closer and taking the coffee mug from her hands. “We have ten minutes.”
He wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her close against his chest right beside the commercial oven where it all began.
Gerard discreetly turned his back, pretending to be intensely focused on kneading dough.
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“You know,” Clara whispered with a playful smile, “for a terrifying mafia boss, you’re awfully clingy.”
“Only with the right people,” Damian murmured before kissing her softly.
