Chapter 8 - Dawn Over Boston HarborThe sun began to crest over the gray Atlantic horizon, painting the Boston skyline in hues of bruised purple and pale gold.
The sirens had stopped wailing hours ago. The flashing lights of the federal cruisers had been replaced by the quiet, orderly hum of forensics teams bagging evidence and loading bodies into unmarked vans.
Inside the master suite on the third floor, Jacey was fast asleep, curled up in a mountain of plush blankets, her thumb tucked slightly against her cheek. Her breathing was even, peaceful, and entirely free of fear.
Austin stood by the tall arched window, holding a cup of cold black coffee, watching the waves crash against the stone seawall below.
A soft knock at the door preceded Special Agent Diana Vance walking into the room, holding a thick manila folder.
“She’s going to be fine,” Diana said softly, glancing toward the bed. “Social services won’t touch her. Her mother’s protective custody status has been fully reinstated retroactively under federal seal. Officially, Elena Reed is dead, and Jacey Reed never existed.”
Austin didn’t turn around. “And Sarah?”
“Facing three consecutive life sentences without parole,” Diana replied grimly. “Federal corruption, racketeering, conspiracy to commit murder. She’ll spend the rest of her days in a maximum-security federal penitentiary in Colorado.”
Austin took a slow sip of his coffee. “And the Senator?”
“Impeached, arrested, and awaiting trial by a special tribunal. His political career is completely obliterated.” Diana walked over to the window, standing beside him. She looked at Austin with a complex mixture of professional respect and maternal sorrow. “You know, you could have walked away with millions if you had played your cards right with Sarah.”
“I’ve got enough blood on my hands, Diana,” Austin said quietly. “I don't need any more dirty money.”
“What are you going to do now?”
Austin looked down at his empty coffee cup, then toward the sleeping child on the bed.
“I’m retiring,” he said simply.
May you like
“From the syndicate?” Diana raised an eyebrow, surprised. “Just like that?”
“Just like that. Bruno and the senior captains are taking over the legitimate shipping fronts. The criminal side of the Cole family ends today.” Austin set the cup down on the sill. “As for me... I promised a little girl on a porch in Vermont six years ago that I would keep her safe. It’s about time I made good on that promise.”
