Chapter 10 - THE FINAL WHISPERThree weeks later, the storm had passed, leaving behind a crisp, merciless autumn sun that pierced through the tall windows of the Moretti estate’s grand study.
Dante sat behind his massive mahogany desk, reviewing the updated security manifests for the entire shipping empire. The losses from the pier incident were staggering, but they were nothing compared to the chilling reality that settled over the estate every single night.
The house was quiet. Too quiet.
Clara had resigned and moved back to her family in Sicily, unable to bear the heavy atmosphere of the house a moment longer. Marco had doubled the guard, turning the Moretti mansion into an impenetrable fortress of armed patrols and biometric scanners.
Dante reached out to pick up a fresh cup of coffee resting on a silver saucer.
As he lifted the cup, he noticed a small, folded piece of heavy parchment tucked neatly beneath the saucer. It hadn't been there when the maid brought the tray in ten minutes ago.
His heart skipped a beat.
With measured slowness, Dante unfolded the note. Written in sharp, elegant handwriting that he recognized instantly were four simple words:
“Check the nursery window.”
Dante didn't call for Marco. He didn't draw his weapon. He simply stood up from his desk, walked out of the study, and climbed the grand staircase one slow step at a time, heading straight for the east wing.
When he pushed open the nursery door, the room was bathed in the golden light of the afternoon sun. Little Leo was sleeping peacefully in his crib, oblivious to the world.
Dante walked over to the mahogany window frame where Elena had stood on that first stormy night.
The window was unlocked. And resting on the wooden sill, freshly carved into the antique glass with a diamond cutter, was a brand-new message:
"I'm not outside anymore, Dante. I'm holding the cradle."
May you like
Before Dante could turn around, a soft, familiar whisper breathed gently against the back of his neck:
“Check your pocket, Mr. Moretti.”
