Chapter 18 - A NEW ALLY
Back at the Greenwich estate, Willow walked through the serene rose garden accompanied by Detective Gabriel Hayes.
The crisp afternoon air brought a healthy pink glow to her cheeks, her dark wavy hair held back by a simple silk ribbon.
"The federal prosecutors said Julian and his mother are facing up to fifteen years without parole," Gabriel reported gently.
"It feels surreal," Willow confessed, stopping near a stone fountain to look at him. "A week ago, I felt completely helpless."
"You were never helpless, Miss Thorne," Gabriel said, his dark eyes looking into hers with deep, sincere respect. "You just needed to see your own strength."
Willow felt a warm flutter in her chest as she looked at the tall, disciplined investigator who had protected her every step of the way.
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"Please, Gabriel," Willow smiled softly, reaching out to touch his arm. "Call me Willow."
Gabriel smiled back, a rare, handsome expression that softened his stern facial features completely.
