Author POV

Mark’s hands were shaking as he knocked on the Scofield mansion door. Eric stood close to him, clinging to the hem of his shirt, his eyes still red from crying. For the first time in years, Mark felt fear—not of losing money, not of business rivals, but fear of facing a woman whose daughter he had wronged.

The door opened, and Giovanni’s mother stepped out, wiping her hands on her apron. Her face brightened for a moment.

“Mark? Eric? What brings you— you didn't say ...