Chapter 18 - THE TRUTH BEFORE THE STORM
Dante read the letter in the chapel while rain struck the stained-glass windows.
His father's handwriting was unmistakable.
The letter admitted that Victor Russo had ordered Michael Hayes killed after discovering the missing funds. Dante's father had arrived too late to prevent the shooting, but instead of reporting the crime, he had helped conceal it to protect the organization.
He had also learned that Emma survived the hospital transfer.
For years, he had kept the secret because he believed Victor would kill her if the truth emerged.
Dante folded the letter.
"My father knew she was alive."
Marco nodded grimly.
"And he never told you."
"He made me believe my sister was dead."
"Maybe he thought ignorance would protect you."
Dante looked at the black ledger.
"Or maybe he wanted me obedient."
The ledger contained the names of officials, business associates, and intermediaries who had helped Victor move money through legitimate companies. Some had retired. Others still held powerful positions.
One name appeared repeatedly.
Bianca Russo.
Dante stared at it.
"She wasn't just my mistress. She was part of this."
Marco nodded.
"We found transfers from Victor's accounts to her private company. She helped him monitor your finances and gather information about Emma."
Dante felt sick.
He had betrayed his wife for a woman who had been helping his enemies dismantle his family.
But the revelation did not absolve him.
Nothing could erase the slap, the humiliation, or the fear in Emma's eyes.
He called her lawyer and arranged to turn over the original documents.
Then he made another call.
"Find Bianca," he ordered.
"Alive?" Marco asked.
"Yes. And no one touches her. She's going to answer for what she did in a courtroom."
When Dante reached the hospital, Emma was awake and sitting beside the window.
He placed the letter on the table.
"My father knew you were alive. Victor ordered your father's death. My family covered it up."
Emma read the letter slowly.
Then she looked at Dante.
"And you?"
"I helped hide the evidence when I was nineteen. I didn't know you were the child Michael had taken away. But I signed papers without asking questions, and I kept quiet afterward."
"Why are you telling me this now?"
"Because I won't ask you to trust me while I'm still hiding the truth."
Emma looked away.
"I don't know if I can ever forgive you."
Dante nodded.
"I understand."
"And I don't know whether I want you near our baby."
His voice trembled.
"Then I'll respect your decision."
May you like
Emma watched him leave.
For the first time, his promise sounded like something he intended to keep.
