Chapter 7 - The New Order|
When the heavy doors clicked shut, the library fell quiet again.
Vincent turned toward the side sofa. Tessa was sitting there, wrapped in a warm wool blanket, a ice pack pressed against her bruised cheek. She looked small against the grand leather furniture, watching him with quiet caution.
Vincent walked over and sat on the coffee table opposite her.
"Your brother Leo," Vincent spoke gently. "The bakery on Elm."
Tessa blinked, surprised. "What about it?"
"Tomorrow morning, my legal team will transfer the deed of the entire Elm Street commercial block to your family," Vincent revealed. "He can reopen his bakery. Rent-free. Indefinitely."
Tessa stared at him, her lips parting in shock. "What? Why would you do that?"
"Because you reminded me of something I lost twenty years ago," Vincent said, leaning forward, his dark eyes looking directly into hers. "You showed me that loyalty isn't bought with fear or money. It's earned."
Tessa looked at the powerful man sitting before her—no longer a monster or a helpless patient, but a man rebuilding himself from the ground up.
"I don't want a block of real estate, Mr. Costa," Tessa said quietly. "I just want my brother to be happy."
"He will be," Vincent promised. "And so will you."
May you like
He stood up, extending his hand to her. "You don't work in the kitchen anymore, Tessa. Starting tonight, you are my personal advisor. The only person in this house whose words I trust."
Tessa looked at his extended palm, then looked into his eyes. Slowly, she set the ice pack down, reached out, and placed her hand in his.
