Chapter 9 - Bound by Family
That evening, a grand gathering was held at Daniel’s home.
For years, Daniel’s estate had been a quiet, fortress-like mansion filled with security guards and heavy silence. Now, it was filled with light, music, and the delicious aroma of Nigerian jollof rice mixed with traditional Korean barbecue.
Jae Min, now acting as the head of Daniel’s legitimate security firm, was grill-side, smiling as he served food to Nneka’s extended family and community members.
Nneka sat at the head of the dining table, laughing as she taught Daniel how to prepare traditional West African spices. The crime boss who had once commanded respect through fear was now humbly listening to a grandmother’s cooking advice.
At the small table in the garden, Evan and Amara were busy drawing pictures. Evan handed Amara a paper covered in bright colors.
“What is it?” Amara asked.
“It’s us,” Evan said proudly. “You, me, Faith the doll, and my dad’s dragon. We’re a team.”
Amara looked at the drawing and smiled widely. “We’re family.”
Daniel stood at the glass doors watching them, holding a glass of water. Jae Min stepped up beside him.
“The old business is completely closed out, boss,” Jae Min reported quietly. “Everything is clean. The foundation is fully funded for the next fifty years.”
“Don't call me boss anymore, Jae Min,” Daniel said gently.
“What should I call you then?”
May you like
Daniel looked out at the garden where Evan was laughing out loud, his life restored, surrounded by love rather than fear.
“Just call me Daniel,” he said.
