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“Don’t Sign It Yet!” the Maid’s Daughter Cried—And Seconds Later, the Mafia Boss Heard His Wife’s Voice for the First Time in Three Years. / Chapter 9 / 15

Chapter 9 - Clearing the Air

The morning sun washed over the Hudson River, casting a brilliant, golden glow through the tall arched windows of the Moretti estate. The oppressive white roses that had choked the grand ballroom the day before had been entirely cleared away, replaced instead by soft, natural arrangements of wildflowers and green ivy.

In the private family parlor, the air felt lighter, cleansed of the shadows that had haunted the mansion for three long years.

Sofia sat on the plush sofa, wrapped in a comfortable cashmere blanket, holding a warm mug of tea between her hands. Though her recovery would take time, the haunted look in her eyes had been replaced by a quiet, enduring strength.

Vincent sat on the coffee table directly in front of her, never taking his eyes off her face, holding her hand as if afraid she might vanish if he let go.

Near the doorway, Grace Carter stood with a tray of fresh pastries, smiling warmly. Beside her, eight-year-old Emily proudly wore her repaired backpack, holding the cracked, dead smartphone in her hand like a trophy.

"I still can't believe you hid that phone in the sewing box, young lady," Grace scolded gently, though her eyes were shining with unshed tears.

"I didn't mean to find it," Emily protested with a cheeky grin. "I just needed a needle!"

Sofia laughed—a bright, genuine sound that echoed through the high-ceilinged room, chasing away the last lingering ghosts of the past. She motioned for Emily to come closer.

The little girl walked over hesitantly. Sofia reached into her pocket and pulled out a small, intricately carved wooden puzzle box, pressing it gently into Emily’s palms.

"Thank you, Emily," Sofia said softly, looking down at the child with deep, unwavering affection. "You saved my life. And because of you, I'm finally home."

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Emily beamed, clutching the puzzle box to her chest. "Does this mean no more white roses in winter?"

Vincent let out a deep, rumbling laugh, pulling Sofia closer as he kissed the top of her head. "No more white roses," he promised. "Only spring."

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Chapter 10 - A New Dawn
Chapter 11 - Whispers of the Past
Chapter 12 - The Prosecutor’s Package
Chapter 13 - The Little Hero of the Estate
Chapter 14 - Shadows Fading Away
Chapter 15 - A Vow Renewed

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