Chapter 7 - THE STOLEN LEGACY
Richard returned to the estate as the sun was setting over Lake Washington, casting golden light across the stone terraces. He found Lila in the garden, pushing Emma on a wooden swing hanging from an ancient oak tree.
He walked over, taking off his jacket and rolling up his sleeves.
"It's done," Richard said softly.
Lila stopped the swing, looking at him with wide eyes. "Helena?"
"Arrested. The board has been purged of her allies. The truth about Kenji is going to be published in the Wall Street Journal tomorrow. He will be officially recognized as the co-founder of Callahan Global. His reputation is restored."
Lila covered her mouth, a sob escaping her throat. She sank to the grass, the years of struggle, grief, and secrecy finally breaking over her like a tidal wave.
Richard knelt beside her, wrapping his arms around her trembling shoulders. He held her as she cried, resting his chin against her hair.
"I'm so sorry, Lila," he whispered. "I was a fool. I should have trusted him. I will spend the rest of my life making it up to both of you."
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Emma hopped off the swing and waddled over, wrapping her small arms around Richard’s neck. "Don't cry, Mr. Richard," she murmured in Japanese.
Richard let out a tearful laugh, hugging the little girl tight. "I'm not sad, Emma. I'm just finally awake."
