"And now he's..."
"Dead." Kholod's tone was calm. "This time we're certain."
I'd just started to relax when my heart clenched again.
"What about Lorenzo? How is he?"
Dmitri and Kholod exchanged a glance.
"Ma'am," Dmitri chose his words carefully, "Lorenzo Conti went completely insane after the attack."
"What?" My voice trembled slightly.
"The Bellucci family took him in. But he couldn't accept that you chose Boss... He wanders the Philadelphia streets all day with a bundle of withered roses, telling anyone who'll listen that he needs to bring his bride home."
"He's lost his mind?" I couldn't believe it.
"Yes, ma'am. Completely."
My hands started shaking, tears welling up instantly.
"Lorenzo..."
"Noelle." Kholod pulled me into his arms. "Don't be sad."
"But it's because of me..."
"Not entirely," he said softly. "Kieran exploited his feelings, and he chose this path himself."
"But..."
"I won't destroy him completely." Kholod sighed. "There's no point with a madman, especially one who helped you before. This is more about his own obsession."
I leaned against him, tears sliding down silently. Lorenzo, who had helped me, protected me—how had he ended up like this?
"Stop crying." He patted my back gently. "All the old grudges and entanglements should be let go. We need to look forward."
I wiped my tears and nodded.
"Dmitri," Kholod instructed, "arrange for someone to regularly send Lorenzo necessities. Make sure he has food and shelter."
"Yes, boss."
"Also, how's the Bellucci family asset transfer progressing? Have our people assist with it—all of that will be Noelle's from now on."
"Everything's been returned. By the way, ma'am, since you've been back, Madam Sofia has requested to see you six times. Would you like to meet with her?"
I sighed softly. I resented my mother, but I couldn't blame her for everything. During my three years away, except for Zoe, I'd cut contact with almost all my relatives.
"Arrange the meeting."
"Understood."
After Dmitri left, Kholod held me tighter.
"Noelle," he whispered in my ear, "it's all over. From now on, we can truly start our new life."
I closed my eyes, settling safely into his embrace.
