Chapter 10 - THEY’RE MINE FOREVER
Six months later, the summer sun broke over Lake Michigan, casting a brilliant golden light across the lush green lawns of the Montalupo estate.
The scars of that terrible night were long gone. Dante Moretti’s syndicate had been completely dismantled by the federal authorities using evidence Leo provided, Inspector Vance had been fired and indicted for corruption, and the Montalupo estate had returned to a place of unshakeable peace and joy.
Today was a special day.
A massive white marquee tent was set up on the lawn overlooking the cliffside. Streamers, balloons, and tables filled with cakes, ice cream, and incredible food stretched across the grass.
Over fifty guests—including Judge Harrison, Marjorie Hail, Detective Sarah Vance (who had assisted in bringing down her corrupt cousin), and families from the local community—were gathered to celebrate.
Today was the official, final court ceremony finalizing the legal adoption of all nine children into the Montalupo family.
Cory stood near the edge of the pavilion, looking radiant in a sun-drenched yellow dress that showcased her gorgeous curves and glowing skin. In her arms, she held Rose, who was now a chubby, laughing two-year-old with bright copper curls, babbling happily as she wore a little floral crown.
Leo walked up behind Cory, wrapping his broad arms around her waist, pulling her back against his chest, resting his chin on her shoulder.
"What are you thinking about, Mrs. Montalupo?" Leo whispered in her ear, his deep voice sending a familiar, wonderful warmth through her body.
"I was thinking about the day we met in the rain," Cory smiled, leaning back against him, placing her hand over his. "You were so terrifying, Leo. Standing there in your black overcoat looking like a thunderstorm."
"And you were standing there looking like an angel who refused to let the storm win," Leo replied softly, kissing her cheek.
Out on the lawn, the children were playing tag. Thomas, now a tall, confident thirteen-year-old, was running after the twins while Pearl and Henry helped Mrs. Gable set out the dessert platters. Lucy, Mabel, and Sadi were laughing as Franco showed them how to fly a giant dragon kite in the sea breeze.
Judge Harrison stepped up to the microphone under the tent, tapping his glass with a spoon.
"Attention, everyone! Attention!" Judge Harrison announced with a warm smile. "We have one final piece of business to conduct today!"
The guests gathered around as Leo and Cory walked up to the podium, holding hands, with all nine children forming a proud, laughing circle around them.
Judge Harrison opened a leather-bound folder. "By order of the Supreme Family Court of Wisconsin, the adoption of Thomas, Pearl, Henry, Sadi, Mabel, Joseph, Jonah, Lucy, and Rose is officially sealed and finalized! They are now, legally and forever, the children of Leandro and Cordelia Montalupo!"
The crowd burst into loud applause and cheers.
Marjorie Hail walked up to Leo with tears of joy in her eyes. "Mr. Montalupo, when I saw you on those courthouse steps six months ago, I never imagined a man like you could save nine unwanted children."
Leo looked down at Cory, then around at his nine beautiful children who were now hugging each other and cheering.
Leo stepped up to the microphone, his gray eyes shining with an absolute, triumphant joy that lit up his entire face.
"They were never unwanted," Leo’s deep voice echoed across the lawn, carrying over the waves of Lake Michigan. "The world just didn't know where they belonged. But today, tomorrow, and for the rest of my life..."
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Leo pulled Cory into his arm, kissing her deeply under the afternoon sun, before looking out at the crowd with a proud, unbeatable smile.
"They are mine forever!"
