Chapter 14 - THE FINAL VERDICTWithin forty-eight minutes, federal agents—tipped off by David Vance’s secure transmissions—surrounded the Grand Meridian Hotel.
Senator Richard Sterling was handcuffed live on national television, his political career vaporized in a single evening. The remaining syndicate captains scattered like cockroaches, their offshore accounts frozen by federal judges who could no longer look the other way.
Back at the Maple Street house, the snow had finally stopped falling, leaving the historic brick property blanketed in a pristine, beautiful white silence.
Inside the living room, a roaring fire crackled in the hearth.
David Vance sat in an armchair by the window, sipping a cup of hot black coffee. Luca stood by the mantlepiece, looking down at his daughter, who was resting comfortably on the sofa with a warm blanket across her lap.
"Well," David chuckled softly, shaking his head. "I must admit, Luca. You certainly know how to throw a party."
"Next time, let's stick to a quiet dinner," Luca smiled, walking over to hand Emily a fresh glass of sparkling cider.
Emily took the glass, smiling up at her father. "Thank you, Dad. For everything."
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"You don't ever have to thank me, Em," Luca said softly, kneeling beside the sofa and gently placing his hand over her pregnant belly. A tiny, energetic kick pressed against his palm.
Luca closed his eyes, a profound sense of peace washing over his soul. The wolves were gone. The house was safe. And the future of the Moretti family was secure.
