Chapter 5 - The Morty Estate
The black luxury SUV passed through the massive wrought-iron gates of the Morty estate, a sprawling fortress of classical architecture surrounded by impeccably manicured gardens and private security checkpoints.
In the back seat, seven-year-old Lily’s eyes were wide with wonder as she pressed her face against the tinted glass. "Mommy, is this a castle?"
Sarah smiled, pulling her daughter close and kissing the top of her head. "Something like that, sweetie. But remember what I told you—we are here for work, and everyone here is very kind, but we must always be respectful."
As the vehicle glided to a stop in front of the grand marble entrance, Julian Morty himself stood waiting on the steps. He wore a crisp white dress shirt with the sleeves rolled up, looking less like a feared syndicate boss and more like a weary father. In his arms, baby Leo was cooing softly.
Julian stepped forward as the door opened, extending a hand to help Lily out of the car. Lily looked up at the towering, intimidating man, then looked at her mother for reassurance. Sarah nodded gently.
"Welcome to your new home, Lily," Julian said, his deep voice carrying a rare, genuine warmth. "I hear you like art and stories. We have a library here with a few thousand books that need someone to read them."
Lily’s eyes lit up. "Thousands? Really?"
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Julian actually smiled—a rare, softening expression that transformed his rugged features. "Every single one of them."
Sarah watched them, feeling a strange, unfamiliar warmth bloom in her chest. For the first time in years, she wasn't just surviving. She was safe.
