Chapter 9 - The Legacy reborn
Two years later.
The sun was setting over the hills of upstate New York, casting a warm golden glow across a sprawling lakeside property.
It was Matteo’s sixth birthday, and the entire estate was decorated with colorful balloons, outdoor game booths, and a massive bouncy castle near the water. Loyal friends, family members, and business associates gathered on the lawn, enjoying music and good food.
I stood near the edge of the lake, watching Matteo and Emma lead a group of children in a game of tag.
Marco walked up beside me, handing me a glass of sparkling water. "The Brooklyn shipping terminals just reported their highest quarterly profits in twenty years, Boss. All legitimate cargo. Not a single federal red flag."
"Good," I smiled, taking a sip. "That's the legacy I want to leave for my children. No blood money. No running in the dark."
"You've changed this empire, Dominic," Marco said with deep respect. "People don't fear the Vale name anymore. They respect it."
"Fear is temporary, Marco," I replied, watching Elena walk across the grass toward us, wearing a stunning green dress that matched her eyes. "Respect and family endure forever."
May you like
Marco smiled, bowing his head slightly before stepping back to join the guests.
Elena walked into my arms, resting her back against my chest as I wrapped my arms securely around her waist. We leaned against each other, watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in brilliant shades of orange, purple, and gold.
