Chapter 11 - Alliances Forged in Fire
The study grew silent once more.
Director Hayes stepped up to the mahogany desk,
looking at Gabriel with a mixture of professional respect and lingering caution.
“It took you five years to hand him to us,
Caruso,
” Hayes said.
“I wanted to make sure the foundation was completely shattered before I brought down the pillars,
” Gabriel replied smoothly.
Hayes nodded,
then turned his gaze toward me.
“Mrs.
Vance,
the federal government owes you an enormous debt of gratitude.
Your husband's sacrifice will finally be honored.
”
“I don't want gratitude,
Director,
” I said softly,
looking over at Lucy,
who was still sleeping soundly on the sofa.
“I want my life back.
I want my daughter to grow up without looking over her shoulder.
”
“She won't have to,
” Gabriel said quietly from behind me.
I turned to face him.
The harsh,
intimidating titan of the underworld was gone,
replaced by a man carrying the heavy burden of survival.
“What happens now,
Mr.
Caruso?” I asked.
“Call me Gabriel,
” he said,
stepping closer.
“And as for what happens now.
.
.
that depends entirely on you.
”
Hayes cleared his throat politely.
“I'll leave you two to discuss estate matters,
” the Director said,
turning on his heel and leading his agents out of the room.
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