Chapter 9 - A New Dynasty
Three months later.
The private terrace of the Goethe Street townhouse overlooked the glittering Chicago skyline. The autumn wind was crisp, carrying the scent of fallen leaves and expensive espresso.
I stood by the bassinet, gently rocking my son, Julian. He was sleeping peacefully, his tiny chest rising and falling in a steady, healthy rhythm. His bilirubin levels were normal, his skin glowing with health.
My mother walked out onto the terrace, placing a warm ceramic mug into my hands.
"The federal trial starts tomorrow," she said softly, watching my face. "They say Vincent is facing twenty years in a federal penitentiary. His lawyers couldn't even afford a bail bond; all his assets were seized."
I took a slow sip of my coffee, my gaze steady as I looked out over the city.
"Let him rot," I said calmly.
"Are you... are you going to go see him?" she asked, hesitating.
May you like
I turned around, letting the morning sun catch the gold signet ring on my right index finger—the crest of the Carter-Vance holding corporation, of which I was now the sole, undisputed CEO.
"Mom," I smiled, a cold, beautiful expression that touched my eyes for the first time in years. "I don't visit ghosts."
