Chapter 12 - The Golden Cage|
While Raymond was dismantling the Genovese family at the Drake Hotel, Naomi was standing on the second-floor terrace of the Lockwood estate.
The storm had cleared, leaving a brilliant, freezing autumn sun reflecting off the blue waters of Lake Michigan.
She wore a warm cashmere coat that staff had provided, holding a mug of dark coffee between her hands. Down below, four armed guards walked the perimeter fences with German Shepherds.
It was a palace. But it was also a golden cage.
Footsteps sounded on the stone terrace behind her.
Naomi turned around.
Raymond stood in the doorway, wearing his dark suit, his broad shoulders leaning against the stone frame. He looked tired, his jaw tight, but his eyes softened the moment they rested on her face.
"It's done," Raymond said quietly, walking over to stand beside her at the stone balustrade. "Genovese is finished. His family has been dissolved."
Naomi took a slow sip of her coffee, looking out at the water. "So I'm safe now?"
"You're safe," Raymond confirmed. "The city knows you are under my personal protection. No one will ever touch your apartment, your job, or your name."
Naomi turned her head slowly, looking at his handsome, scarred profile.
"And what about my job, Raymond?" she asked softly. "Saint Mercy's called my phone three times this morning. I missed my shift."
Raymond reached into his pocket, pulling out a sleek black folder, handing it to her.
Naomi opened it.
Inside was an official corporate document from the board of directors of Saint Mercy’s Hospital.
Appointment of Nurse Naomi Hail as Chief Director of Trauma Services — Fully Funded Endowment by The Lockwood Foundation.
May you like
Naomi stared at the paper, her breath catching in her throat. "Raymond... what is this?"
"You don't take night shifts anymore, Naomi," Raymond murmured, stepping closer, his hand gently touching her shoulder. "You run the department. You get the equipment you need, the staff you want, and a salary that ensures you never have to worry about rent for the rest of your life."
