Chapter 47
The return to the estate was a welcome relief from the brutal violence of the European campaign. The sprawling mansion was bathed in pristine, natural sunlight, a fortress of absolute peace. Alessandro bypassed his study, eager to shed the darkness of the past few days.
He walked into the east wing, the heavy oak doors opening to reveal the bright, cheerful playroom. Livia was sitting at a small table, her fair, rosy cheeks flushed as she concentrated on a painting. Rosalie and Clara stood nearby, watching her with warm smiles.
"Daddy!" Livia cheered, dropping her paintbrush and running to him.
Alessandro caught her, lifting her high into the air. The terrifying warlord vanished entirely, replaced by the profoundly devoted father. He buried his face in her hair, the scent of her innocence anchoring his soul.
"I missed you, little bird," Alessandro murmured, his deep voice filled with genuine emotion.
"I painted a picture of our house!" Livia proudly declared, pointing to the colorful, messy artwork on the table.
Alessandro carried her over to look at it. "It is a masterpiece," he smiled, a breathtaking expression that completely erased the cold, sociopathic mask he wore for the world.
He looked at Rosalie and Clara, offering a respectful nod. "Thank you for keeping her safe."
May you like
"Always, Mr. Rizzano," Rosalie replied, her loyalty absolute.
Alessandro held his daughter in the cinematic, bright light of their home. He had fought wars across continents to protect this exact moment. His empire was secure, but his family was his true legacy.
