Chapter 8 - Three Years Later, Bella Was Ready to Forgive Him—Until a New Threat Forced Her to Choose Between the Man She Loved and the Empire She HatedThree years passed.
Mateo became a bright, curious little boy.
He loved buildings.
He loved music.
He loved his father.
Bella and Adriano maintained separate homes.
They co-parented beautifully.
They attended school events.
They celebrated birthdays.
They argued occasionally.
But they never lied.
Then an old Moretti enemy returned.
A rival family attempted to buy the remaining legitimate businesses.
Adriano refused.
Threats followed.
Bella became a target.
One evening, her office was vandalized.
Nothing was stolen.
Only one message was left.
YOU CAN'T ESCAPE THE NAME.
Bella called Adriano.
He came immediately.
But he did not order violence.
He called the police.
He increased legal security.
He filed reports.
Bella watched him.
“You really changed.”
“I had to.”
“Why?”
“Because Mateo is watching.”
That sentence broke through her.
He wasn't afraid of consequences.
He was teaching their son what responsibility looked like.
Later that night, Bella finally said:
“I want to try.”
Adriano stared.
“Try what?”
“Us.”
He didn't move.
“I don't want the old us.”
“I don't either.”
“I want separate businesses.”
“Fine.”
“Separate accounts.”
“Fine.”
“No secrets.”
“Never again.”
“And therapy.”
He smiled.
“Already have a therapist.”
She laughed.
“You were prepared.”
“I've been hoping.”
She touched his cheek.
“Hope carefully.”
May you like
Then she kissed him.
This time, neither of them pulled away.
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