Chapter 13 - THE REUNION AT MERCY GENERALThree days later, the private VIP wing of Mercy General Hospital was bathed in soft morning light. The rhythmic beep-beep of the heart monitor was steady, strong, and clear—restored to its proper cadence after three months of deliberate, calculated poison.
Elena Hayes stood beside the hospital bed, holding a small vase of fresh white lilies. In the center of the bed sat Lorenzo’s mother, seventy-two-year-old Beatrice Duca, her mind sharp, her eyes bright, her hand resting warmly over her grandson’s—or rather, little Mia’s—tiny fingers.
The heavy door opened, and Lorenzo stepped into the room. He was wearing his usual tailored black suit, his expression softened just enough for the lines around his eyes to relax.
Beatrice looked up from her granddaughter, fixing her eldest son with a sharp, knowing gaze that hadn't faded an inch despite her stroke.
"Took you long enough to clear the trash out of my house, Lorenzo," Beatrice said, her voice raspy but fierce.
Lorenzo walked to the bedside, bending down to kiss his mother’s weathered hand. "I had to make sure the foundation was solid, Mother."
Beatrice glanced over at Elena, who offered a warm, grateful smile, and then down at little Mia, who was happily coloring a picture of a golden retriever on the hospital tray table.
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"She’s a good girl, that Elena," Beatrice said softly, loud enough for the young mother to hear. "And the little one has her grandfather’s stubborn streak. Don't let either of them ever leave this house again."
Lorenzo stood up, his dark eyes meeting Elena’s across the bed. A quiet, unspoken understanding passed between them—not of contract or debt, but of survival, loyalty, and a brand-new beginning.
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