HIS

Chapter 36

It's been a full month since we returned, and I've been enjoying every moment of it. I've resumed my studies, which are still online rather than in-person—and honestly, I prefer it that way, even with the risks.

I've kept in touch with the guys in Cheyenne—they're doing well and still keeping up their weekend drinking tradition. Kyle, however, hasn't reached out. He's upset that I left them behind, but I can't blame him entirely. I just think he held on to a hope that was never really there.

My dad's been pestering us for a dinner at his place, and we finally agreed to go. That's why we're getting dressed now—ready to head over and get it over with.

The strategy to undermine the company is gradually taking effect. Domenico is subtly redirecting buyers away from all other ongoing projects. He's doing this in a way that goes unnoticed, presenting alternative offers that compel investors to choose his path over my father's.

Without buyers, there's no revenue stream, and the company is barely surviving. The word on the street is to avoid doing business with him, as investors fear financial losses. Naturally, this will lead to significant job cuts. However, Domenico has assured me that once my father's company shuts down, he will integrate the affected employees into his legitimate businesses.

I don't think I could bear the weight of knowing that my actions led to children going hungry or families losing their homes because of job losses.

It's December, and winter has fully settled in. The cold is biting, and it feels like snow could start falling any day now. I bundled up in jeans, a cozy knitted sweater, my long beloved coat, and a pair of boots. Domenico wore black jeans, a polo-neck, and layered a coat over it.

As we drove to my dad's place, I noticed how completely dark it had gotten outside.
"Baby, I have to go to Cape Town for business tomorrow, and I want you to come with me," Domenico said, gently taking my hand and intertwining our fingers, while his other hand remained steady on the steering wheel.

"Cape Town? As in Africa?" I asked, frowning in confusion. We don't get much information about Africa, so it felt unfamiliar. But if Domenico says we're going, who am I to turn down his invitation to explore the world?

"Yep, Cape Town — the one in Africa," he said, smiling at my cluelessness.

"Alright, as long as I get to spend it with you," I said, giving him my wholehearted confirmation.

"Oh, Olivia, my beautiful wife," he said with a warm smile. "I've booked us a beach house in Clifton—right by the ocean. So, pack for summer... and don't forget a few of those stunning bikinis I love."

As we rounded the final corner, my father's house came into view, and a flood of childhood memories rushed over me. I sat quietly for a moment, staring at the front door, letting the weight of the past settle in. After a deep breath, I stepped out of the car and slowly made my way to the entrance. I never imagined I'd be walking through that door again.

After ringing the doorbell, Gloria opened the door—and before she could say a word, I wrapped her in a hug. She was visibly stunned to see me, and I could see tears welling up in her eyes.

"Who's at the door, Gloria?" Julia's voice—sharp and unmistakable—echoed from somewhere deeper in the house.

"It's Miss Olivia," she replied softly, her gaze briefly shifting toward Domenico.
"Gloria, this is my husband Domenico. Domenico this is Gloria, the only person I had living in this house that loved me like a sister" I say, smiling at her and she gives me a smile back.

"I missed you," she whispered quickly, before hurrying down the corridor just as Dad, Julia, and Sophia appeared.

"Oh, Olivia and Domenico—how wonderful to see you again after all this time," Dad said as he stepped forward to greet us.