Chapter 18 - the innocent question
Months later, the sprawling Romano estate was bathed in warm, golden afternoon sunlight.
Domenico sat peacefully on a heavy wrought-iron bench in the lush, blooming rose garden, reviewing legitimate corporate contracts on his tablet.
Sofia, now a bright, incredibly perceptive seven-year-old, ran across the green lawn. She climbed happily onto the bench, resting her small head against Domenico’s broad shoulder.
"Uncle Domenico?" Sofia asked softly, her dark eyes looking up at him with pure, unconditional trust.
"Yes, piccola mia?" Domenico replied, instantly setting his work aside to give her his absolute, undivided attention.
"What was my daddy like?" she asked, holding a small, silver locket that contained a picture of Antonio.
Domenico felt a profound, beautiful ache in his chest. He looked at the niece he had raised as his own daughter, seeing his brother's brilliant spirit shining in her eyes.
He didn't tell her about the violence, the betrayals, or the dark secrets. He told her the absolute truth about the man who mattered.
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"Your father was the greatest, bravest man I ever knew," Domenico answered gently.
👉 Read Part 19 to hear Domenico's beautiful tribute to his brother.
