Chapter 10 - Forever and Always
Five years later.
The Salt Line was now universally recognized as the finest waterfront dining establishment in Boston, its copper-accented interior humming with upscale conversation, clinking wine glasses, and the soft murmur of satisfied diners.
At a corner table by the window — the exact same table where a nineteen-year-old girl had once laughed at her own joke before a steel baton nearly ended her life — sat a family of four.
Finn, now fourteen and taller than his mother, was laughing as his younger sister, a four-year-old bundle of curls named Elena after Rafe's grandmother, eagerly pointed at a dessert menu.
Across from them sat Mave, looking stunning in a deep emerald dress, her dark hair swept back in an elegant twist, her eyes bright and filled with an unshakeable peace.
And beside her sat Rafe, his dark hair threaded with just a touch of silver at the temples that only made him look more distinguished, his arm resting casually along the back of Mave’s chair.
The waiter arrived, trembling slightly — not out of fear, but out of the reverent awe inspired by serving the most powerful man in the city.
"Good evening, Mr. Colazo. Mrs. Colazo," the young man said respectfully. "May I recite tonight's specials?"
Rafe looked down at his wife, whose hand rested comfortably over his on the white linen tablecloth, the diamond ring catching the candlelight. Then he looked across the table at his son and daughter, before raising his eyes to meet the waiter's.
May you like
"No specials needed," Rafe said, a rare, genuine smile touching his lips. "We already have everything we've ever wanted."
Mave smiled back at him, her heart full, knowing that whatever storms might rage outside in the cold world, they were safe here. Together. Forever.
