Chapter 20
"Ensure her daughter's trust fund is fully capitalized," Raffaele instructed, his voice cold and objective. "I want the girl protected. She is not to suffer for the sins of her mother."
"Already done, Boss," Vincent nodded respectfully. "Child services placed her with a reputable foster family this morning. The trust will cover her education and living expenses until she is twenty-five."
Raffaele dismissed his underboss and stood up, walking over to the large window overlooking the expansive, impeccably manicured lawns of the estate. The bright, vibrant blue sky stretched out above the property, a perfect reflection of the absolute, untouchable security he had established.
He had learned a valuable lesson. He had sought a mother for Noah, believing that a complete family unit would bring stability to his son's life. But he realized now that stability didn't come from forcing a piece into the puzzle; stability came from ruthless, uncompromising protection. He was enough. He and Margaret, and the loyal army that surrounded them, were all the family Noah needed.
The heavy doors to the study clicked open. Noah peeked his head around the corner, holding a picture book.
"Daddy, can you read to me?" the little boy asked, his voice echoing softly in the large room.
The terrifying Mafia boss, the apex predator who commanded an army of killers, instantly vanished. Raffaele’s face softened, a charming, romantic smile touching his lips as the loose strands of dark hair fell across his forehead.
May you like
"Of course, Noah," Raffaele murmured, walking over and lifting his son into his arms.
He carried Noah over to the massive leather sofa in the center of the study, sitting down and opening the book. As he read the story, his deep, resonant voice filling the room, Raffaele knew that his empire was secure. The Marconi name was feared across the country, but in this quiet, sunlit room, he was simply a father. And the world outside would burn before he ever let anyone threaten this peace again.
