Chapter 9 - The Return to Oakridge
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Twenty-four hours later.
The storm had passed, leaving behind a crisp, clear morning light that bathed the Rossi estate in bright gold.
A fleet of state police cruisers and federal vehicles lined the long, curving driveway. Officers were carrying boxes of evidence out of the main doors, while reporters gathered outside the iron gates, eager for news of the scandal that was dismantling one of the country’s most powerful families.
I stepped out of a sleek black sedan, holding Leo securely against my chest in a warm cashmere blanket. Beside me walked Grace, leaning gently against my arm, wearing a soft coat and looking color back in her cheeks.
Detective Singh met us at the grand entrance stairs, holding a clipboard.
“Constantina Rossi and Sophia Moretti have both been formally remanded without bail,” Singh reported briskly. “Charges include kidnapping, conspiracy to commit murder, financial fraud, and human trafficking.”
I looked up at the towering marble facade of the mansion—the place where I had grown up believing in duty, honor, and family. It no longer looked grand. It looked like a tomb that had finally been opened to the light.
“What will happen to the estate?” Grace asked softly, resting her head against my shoulder.
“I’m putting it under full corporate trust,” I said, looking down at my son sleeping peacefully in my arms. “And then I’m closing it down. We are never living in this house again.”
Bellini emerged from the front doors, carrying two large leather suitcases. He walked down the steps and stopped before us, offering a small, respectful bow.
“Your new home in the valley is ready, sir,” Bellini said. “The nursery has been set up exactly as Mrs. Rossi wished.”
I reached out and placed a hand on the old man’s shoulder. “Thank you, Lorenzo. For everything.”
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Bellini’s eyes glistened with tears as he looked at baby Leo. “It was the honor of my life, Don Adrian.”
“Don't call me Don,” I smiled gently. “I’m just a father now.”
