Chapter 4 - The Sound of Silence
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The first week at the Valenti estate passed in a blur of strict schedules and silent communication.
Cassidy learned to read the subtle changes in Bella’s expressions. A slight tilt of the head meant she was curious. A tightening of her jaw meant she was overwhelmed by the sheer size of the mansion.
Cassidy also learned that Dominic Valenti was a ghost in his own home. He left before dawn and returned long after sunset, his face tight with exhaustion and the heavy burden of running a criminal empire.
One rainy Tuesday afternoon, Cassidy sat on the floor of the playroom with Bella, teaching her how to fold origami cranes.
“My mom taught me this when I was your age,” Cassidy explained, guiding Bella’s small fingers to fold the paper. “She said if you fold a thousand of them, you get a wish.”
Bella looked up, her dark eyes wide. She quickly grabbed her tablet and typed out a sentence. The text-to-speech voice robotic but clear: What did you wish for?
“I wished for my mom to get better,” Cassidy said softly.
Bella’s face fell. She typed again: My mom didn't get better.
Cassidy’s heart broke. She had been briefed on the tragedy by Mrs. Gable. Two years ago, Dominic’s wife, Sofia, had been killed in a crossfire intended for him. Bella had been in the backseat of the car. The trauma had stolen her voice completely.
“I know, sweetie,” Cassidy whispered, pulling the girl into a gentle hug. “I’m so sorry.”
Suddenly, the heavy mahogany doors of the playroom opened. Dominic stood there, loosening his silk tie. He looked exhausted, a dark bruise forming along his jawline—a physical reminder of the violent world he inhabited.
“How was your day, Principessa?” Dominic asked, his voice softening the moment he looked at his daughter.
Bella ran to him, holding up the slightly lopsided paper crane she had just folded. Dominic took it carefully, as if it were made of spun gold.
“It is beautiful,” he murmured, kissing her forehead.
He looked at Cassidy over his daughter’s head. His gray eyes were intense, piercing through her defenses.
“You have a calming effect on her, Miss Tate,” Dominic noted.
May you like
“She’s a wonderful girl, Mr. Valenti. She just needs patience.”
“I am a man severely lacking in patience,” Dominic admitted quietly. He stepped closer, the scent of expensive cologne and ozone clinging to him. “But for her, I will learn. And for you... I am grateful.”
