Chapter 92
The Venetti estate was bathed in sunlight, the gardens in full bloom as Carmen walked along the stone paths, her son toddling at her side. Marco watched from the terrace, a faint smile on his face as he took in the scene. For the first time in years, there was peace.
Carmen looked up at him and waved. “Are you going to stand there all day, or are you coming to help me with your son?”
Marco chuckled and descended the steps, scooping the boy into his arms. “He’s already got more energy than I do,” he said, laughing as his son tugged at his collar.
“That’s because he takes after me,” Carmen teased, slipping her arm through Marco’s as they strolled through the garden.
Marco nodded, his expression growing serious. “And thank God for that. You’re the reason we’ve made it here, Carmen. You and him.”
She leaned her head against his shoulder. “We’ve done this together, Marco. And now we can finally focus on building something lasting.”
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Over the next few weeks, Marco and Carmen dedicated themselves to their vision for the future. The Venetti family’s operations expanded, not through violence but through smart investments and legitimate businesses.
“Construction, logistics, agriculture,” Carmen explained during a meeting with their advisors. “These industries will provide stability. And stability is what keeps power intact.”
Marco listened as Carmen laid out the plans, his respect for her only growing. After the meeting, he pulled her aside.
“You’re brilliant,” he said simply.
Carmen smiled. “I’ve had a good partner.”
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One afternoon, Marco sat with their son in the courtyard, a wooden toy in his hand as he explained something in a gentle tone.
“Strength isn’t about fighting,” Marco said. “It’s about protecting the people you care about. Loyalty, kindness—those are the things that make you strong.”
Carmen joined them, sitting beside Marco as she added, “And sometimes, being strong means building something good, even when it’s hard.”
Their son looked up at them with wide eyes, his innocence a reminder of why they fought so hard.
Marco reached for Carmen’s hand. “He’s going to have a better life. Because of you.”
“Because of us,” Carmen corrected, her smile soft.
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That evening, Carmen found Marco in the study, pacing.
“Is something wrong?” she asked.
He turned to her, his expression filled with concern and love. “You’re going to think I’m imagining things, but… you’ve been glowing lately.”
Carmen laughed softly and stepped closer, taking his hands in hers. “Marco, there’s something I need to tell you.”
His brows furrowed, his grip tightening. “What is it?”
“I’m pregnant,” she said, her voice warm and steady.
For a moment, Marco stared at her, his eyes wide with disbelief. Then his face broke into a smile, and he pulled her into his arms.
“A child,” he whispered. “Another chance to do things right.”
Carmen nodded, tears shining in her eyes. “Another reason to keep building the future we’ve dreamed of.”
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In the weeks that followed, Marco began passing more responsibilities to Luca and Sergio, trusting them to handle the operations that once consumed him.
“You’ve earned this,” Marco said to Luca during a quiet conversation in the office. “And it’s time I focus on what matters most—my family.”
Luca nodded, his respect for Marco evident. “We’ve got this, boss.”
The Venetti estate came alive one evening for a grand celebration. The halls shimmered with light, and laughter echoed as allies and friends gathered to toast a new era.
Carmen and Marco stood at the center of it all, their son playing at their feet.
“To a new beginning,” Marco said, raising his glass.
“To family,” Carmen added, her gaze locking with Marco’s.
As their guests cheered, Marco and Carmen shared a quiet moment, their hands intertwined.
“We’ve made it,” Marco said softly.
Carmen smiled. “And the best is yet to come.”
Their love, their strength, and their unwavering commitment had carried them through the darkest times. Now, they stood together, ready to face the future—united and unbreakable.
