Chapter 11 - The Father's Last Order
Aldo's letter was grim evidence of his knowledge, but the investigators still needed to determine its authenticity and meaning. Cedric submitted the original through his counsel.
The letter referred to Bellini's responsibility for “the warehouse matter” and demanded that the surviving child never be identified. It also suggested that Aldo had helped conceal records after the fire.
I read a copy with Nico beside me.
“Mom wasn't killed by an electrical fault,” he whispered.
“No.”
For years, we'd each believed our family had ended in one terrible accident. Now we knew the truth was tied to decisions made by powerful adults who valued their businesses more than human lives.
Nico wanted to confront Bellini. I did too. Instead, we met with victim advocates who helped us understand the investigation and gave us space to decide how involved we could bear to be.
Cedric stepped back from the businesses still associated with his father's organization. Independent managers were appointed where lawful, and investigators examined records that had previously remained hidden.
Those actions could not undo his involvement. They did make further scrutiny possible.
One evening, Tomaso arrived at Elena's office with a sealed letter from Cedric.
Anna, I will not oppose your effort to end the marriage. I will not ask you to forgive me. You should have been free to choose from the beginning.
I set the letter down.
“Are you relieved?” Meera asked.
“Yes,” I said after a long pause. “And sad for the girl who never had this choice fifteen years ago.”
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Then Elena received a call.
A former warehouse supervisor had agreed to provide evidence, and he was prepared to identify the person who had sealed the emergency exit.
