Chapter 10 - The Father's Justice
With the monster permanently removed from their lives, the heavy, toxic tension in the ballroom instantly evaporated.
Dominic signaled to his men, and the room was quickly cleared of the ruined decorations and the broken table. The musicians, understanding the assignment, softly began playing a warm, joyful melody, signaling that the nightmare was entirely over and the celebration was to resume.
Dominic turned his back on the door and walked slowly back across the Persian carpet toward his daughter.
Lulu was still standing safely behind the massive bodyguard, her big eyes watching her father with absolute, unquestioning trust. The red welt on her cheek was already fading, but the memory of her bravery remained.
Dominic knelt down on the floor once again, completely ignoring the creases in his tailored black tuxedo. He reached out, gently picking up the jeweled birthday crown that Marcella had dropped on the carpet.
He brushed a soft piece of lint off the velvet lining, then carefully, lovingly placed the glittering crown back onto his daughter's dark hair, exactly where it belonged.
"You are incredibly brave, little one," Dominic whispered, his rugged, battle-hardened face softening into an expression of pure, unadulterated paternal love. "And you never have to be afraid of that woman ever again. Your mother loved you more than anything in this entire world, and so do I."
Lulu smiled, a bright, beautiful expression that completely illuminated the room. She threw her small arms around her father's massive neck, burying her face in his shoulder.
Dominic held her tightly, closing his eyes and feeling a profound, unshakeable sense of peace. He had faced the darkest, most terrifying betrayal from his own blood, and he had utterly destroyed the threat without a single moment of hesitation.
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Justice had prevailed, the wicked had been dragged into the shadows to pay for their crimes, and Dominic Carvelli proved that the most powerful, dangerous man in the city was also its most devoted, loving father.
What would you do if you discovered someone you trusted had secretly caused the greatest tragedy of your life?
