Chapter 7 - THE PRICE OF MAKING IT PUBLIC
Rocco’s attorney, Daniel Mercer, gave him the choice without softening it.
“You can keep this inside the household, end the engagement, send Bianca away, and document everything privately.”
“And Ava?”
“She leaves with her mother unless another legal issue changes custody.”
Rocco’s expression hardened.
“Or?”
“You report what you witnessed and what staff have described.”
Rocco knew immediately why Daniel hesitated.
“And then child protection comes into my home.”
“Yes.”
“They interview staff.”
“Yes.”
“They may review security records.”
“Yes.”
“They may ask questions unrelated to Bianca.”
Daniel paused.
“You are Rocco Bellandi.”
The meaning did not need explanation.
Rocco’s family reputation had been built long before Noah was born.
Inviting state investigators into the estate carried consequences far beyond one engagement.
It could expose illegal conduct.
Financial arrangements.
People.
History.
Daniel continued.
“If we do this correctly, we cooperate completely regarding the children. But I cannot promise the inquiry stays narrow.”
Rocco walked toward the window.
For decades, Bellandi problems had been handled privately because privacy protected power.
The same instinct had kept staff quiet while Noah stood outside a bedroom holding a flashlight.
Rocco finally understood the trap.
If he chose secrecy now because secrecy protected him, he would be teaching Noah exactly what Bianca had taught Ava.
Adults matter more than children when adults have more to lose.
Daniel waited.
“What do you want me to do?”
Rocco looked toward the hallway where Noah was playing.
“Prepare the report.”
Daniel did not move.
“You’re sure?”
“No.”
May you like
Rocco turned back.
“Prepare it anyway.”
