Freddy’s POV

I stood in front of the mirror, straightening my tie, lost in thought. Years had passed, and somehow, I had learned to live without blood on my hands. It wasn’t easy at first, but Aliana made sure I had something to focus on. She gave me purpose outside of the life I once knew.

Her restaurant flourished, so much so that she opened another one and left it under Mercy’s care. It became one of the most talked-about spots in the city, a place where people gathered for more than just food. It was an experience, a home away from home. I had never seen her so fulfilled,...