Chapter 39 - The Guardian's Rest
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The sun was setting over the Vermont cabin, casting a spectacular display of violet, gold, and deep crimson across the glassy surface of the lake. Dominic sat in a heavy wooden rocking chair on the porch, a thick wool blanket draped over his knees. He was much older now. The thick black hair that had once intimidated boardrooms was now entirely silver, and the lines carved into his face spoke of a life lived on the absolute edge.
His health had begun to quietly decline over the past year. Nothing dramatic, just the slow, inevitable slowing down of a machine that had been run far beyond its limits for too long.
The screen door squeaked open, and Daniel walked out, carrying two glasses of dark amber whiskey. The loyal enforcer was also graying, but he moved with the same quiet, lethal grace he always had.
"The doctors in the city said you need to limit this stuff, boss," Daniel noted, handing a glass to Dominic anyway.
"The doctors in the city don't know the value of a good sunset," Dominic replied, his voice a gravelly whisper, taking a slow sip. The burn was familiar and comforting.
They sat in silence for a long time, watching the sky change colors.
"Mia sent a message," Daniel said, looking out at the water. "Harper got accepted into that art program in Paris. She leaves next month."
Dominic smiled, a soft, genuine expression. "Paris. From a dark house in the Hudson Valley to Paris. That is a good trajectory."
"It is because of you," Daniel said fiercely. "You gave them that trajectory."
Dominic shook his head slowly. "I just opened the door, Daniel. They did the walking." He paused, looking at his old friend. "I have amended the trust, Daniel. When my time comes, the foundation, the logistics company, all of it passes to Lily and Mia. But I left the brownstone in the city to you. You need a place to retire that doesn't involve guarding a perimeter."
Daniel looked down at his glass, his throat tightening. He had sworn to protect this man with his life, and in return, Dominic had given him a family.
May you like
"I'm not retiring until you do, boss," Daniel said stubbornly.
"I think I already have," Dominic whispered, closing his eyes, listening to the gentle lapping of the lake water against the shore.
