Chapter 7 - THE HEIR’S FIRST LESSON
Six months later.
Spring had arrived at the Valenti estate, covering the rolling hills in vibrant green grass, cherry blossoms, and sunshine.
On the sunlit back terrace, six-year-old Leo sat at a small wooden table, intently studying a chessboard set up in front of him. Opposite him sat Serafina, sipping a cup of hot Earl Grey tea.
Mia was nearby, happily painting watercolors on an easel near the rose garden, guarded by two relaxed, friendly security guards.
"Auntie Sera," Leo murmured, holding his wooden knight in his tiny hand. "Why did Uncle Marco want to hurt us?"
Serafina set her teacup down gently. She reached across the table and took his small hand in hers.
"Uncle Marco was confused, Leo," Serafina explained softly. "He thought that having power meant making people afraid of you. He thought that if he yelled loud enough and took things that weren't his, people would respect him."
"Is that true?" Leo asked, his big brown eyes searching her face.
"No, sweetie," Serafina smiled warmly. "True power isn't about making people fear you. It's about protecting the people you love so fiercely that no one ever dares to hurt them."
May you like
Leo looked down at his knight, then set it carefully on a square in the center of the board. "Like you protected us?"
"Always," Serafina whispered, kissing his forehead. "You and Mia are my whole world."
