Chapter 14 - The Final Page|
Six months later.
Spring had arrived in full bloom across the estate grounds. The high iron gates were open, allowing local children from the neighborhood to play on the vast green lawns.
The dark, cold silence of the mansion was gone forever, replaced by music, laughter, and the warmth of a real home.
Vincent sat on the sunny wraparound porch, sipping espresso, watching Tessa help Leo set up a table for a neighborhood afternoon lunch.
Dr. Matteo walked up the porch steps, carrying a lightweight medical file.
"How are the vitals, Matteo?" Vincent asked, a subtle smile touching his lips.
"Heart rate is perfect, Boss," Matteo laughed, setting the folder down. "Though I don't think you need me as a doctor anymore. You look ten years younger."
"I feel ten years younger," Vincent agreed, looking out at the gardens.
Tessa walked up the porch steps, holding a plate of warm, fresh sfogliatelle. She set the plate on the table and sat on the arm of Vincent's chair, resting her hand gently over his shoulder.
Vincent reached up, gently squeezing her hand, pulling her down for a soft kiss.
"What are you thinking about, Mr. Costa?" Tessa teased softly.
"I was thinking about the itch," Vincent smiled, looking into her bright brown eyes.
"The itch?"
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"The itch I had when I was lying in that bed, pretending to be asleep," Vincent murmured, pulling her closer into his arms. "I thought it was the worst thing in the world. But it brought me to you."
Tessa laughed—a sweet, clear sound that echoed across the sunny gardens as the storm of their past faded away forever, leaving a bright, beautiful horizon wide open before them.
