Chapter 12 - Scars and Sunlight
The morning sun cast a radiant, golden glow through the panoramic windows of the villa. In the kitchen, the scent of sizzling bacon and fresh pancake batter filled the air.
Elena turned from the stove as the garage door clicked open. When she saw Dante enter, spattered in mud and wearing a fresh white bandage around his forearm, her heart leaped into her throat.
“Dante!” She rushed over, her eyes darting frantically across his body. “Are you hurt? What happened?”
“Just a scratch,” Dante assured her, offering a gentle, tired smile. “Vargas is in federal custody. His entire organization has been dismantled. You and Mia are completely free.”
Elena froze, the spatula trembling in her hand. “Free? Just like that?”
“Just like that,” Dante said softly. “You never have to run again. You never have to look over your shoulder.”
A choked sob broke from Elena’s throat, and she threw her arms around his neck, burying her face into his chest. Dante wrapped his uninjured arm securely around her waist, holding her close against him as the years of sorrow, fear, and loneliness washed away in silent tears.
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“Thank you,” she whispered against his skin. “Thank you for saving us.”
“You saved me first,” Dante murmured, his voice thick with emotion. “Seven years ago, I was lost in the dark. You gave me a reason to step into the light.”
