Chapter 6 - The Crime Boss Gave Up His Empire for the Nurse Who Hated Him
The investigation lasted months.
Adrian cooperated.
Some people called him a traitor.
Others called him a coward.
He didn't care.
Claire returned to Harborview.
Her apartment was still gone.
But Adrian never offered to buy her a home.
He waited.
Claire appreciated that.
She rented a small apartment near the hospital.
It wasn't luxurious.
The heating was unreliable.
The kitchen was tiny.
But it was hers.
Adrian came for dinner.
He sat on a folding chair.
He ate burnt pasta.
He smiled.
“I've eaten at restaurants where one appetizer costs more than this apartment.”
“Then you're getting an education.”
“I am.”
They rebuilt their relationship slowly.
No bodyguards at the table.
No secrets.
No manipulation.
Then Victor escaped.
He kidnapped Danny Morales.
Claire received one phone call.
“Come alone.”
Adrian wanted to go.
Claire stopped him.
“No.”
“Claire.”
“This is because of me.”
“No.”
“Then let me end it.”
Adrian stared at her.
“You are not a weapon.”
“No.”
She picked up her medical bag.
“I am a nurse.”
They tracked Danny to an abandoned warehouse.
Claire entered first.
Victor wanted Adrian to surrender.
Adrian did.
The exchange was supposed to be simple.
But Victor had planned betrayal.
He shot Daniel.
Adrian attacked.
Claire treated Danny.
Police arrived.
Victor fled.
Before disappearing, he shouted:
“You think giving up your empire changes what you are?”
Adrian looked at Claire.
May you like
She answered for him.
“Yes.”
