Chapter 8 - The Fortress on the HudsonAn hour later, the black Maybach sped across the George Washington Bridge, leaving the flashing lights of Queens far behind.
Emma sat in the back seat, clutching a small duffel bag containing Margaret’s medicine and a few changes of clothes. Margaret had finally drifted off to sleep, exhausted by the terror and confusion, resting her head gently on Emma’s shoulder.
Through the darkened windows, Emma watched the glowing lights of the city blur past. She felt like an alien in her own life. Less than twenty-four hours ago, she was just an ordinary woman sealing frozen dinners. Now, she was being spirited away to a fortress owned by the most feared man in New York.
The car passed through massive wrought-iron gates hidden deep within the sprawling, wooded estate on the Hudson River. A sprawling stone mansion, lit by discreet security lights, rose majestically against the night sky.
When the car stopped, Marcus opened the door. Gabriel stepped out first, offering a strong, steady hand to help Emma and her mother out of the vehicle.
"Welcome to Moretti House," Gabriel said quietly.
Inside, the mansion was a blend of old-world luxury and state-of-the-art security. Within minutes, medical staff had settled Margaret into a luxurious, fully equipped guest suite with a private nurse, ensuring she would receive better care than Emma could ever dream of affording.
Emma stood in the grand, high-ceilinged study, looking out at the dark waters of the Hudson. Gabriel walked over, handing her a crystal glass of water. Her hands shook as she took it.
"Your mother is safe here," Gabriel said, pouring himself a finger of scotch. "No one gets past the perimeter without my say-so."
"Why are you doing this?" Emma asked, turning to face him, her eyes shining with unshed tears. "You don't owe me anything. You’re a powerful man—you could just pay me off and forget I exist."
Gabriel took a slow sip of his drink, his dark eyes never leaving hers. "I don't forget debts, Emma. Especially debts paid in blood. And more importantly..." He paused, walking closer until he stood just a breath away. "...my daughter asked about you this morning."
May you like
Emma caught her breath. "Sophie?"
"She woke up an hour ago," Gabriel said, a rare, genuine softness breaking through his hardened facade. "The first thing she said was: Where is the lady who carried me through the fire? She wants to thank you herself."
