Chapter 7 - The Ledger in the Cobbler’s BenchBy noon, the federal authorities had begun their comprehensive seizure of the Ashford commercial properties across three states.
Assistant United States Attorney Marcus Vance held a formal press briefing on the steps of the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, announcing the indictment of Charles Ashford on multiple counts of federal racketeering, conspiracy to commit murder, and interstate kidnapping resulting in death.
Vivienne Ashford was formally charged as a co-conspirator for evidence tampering, extortion, and corporate fraud, her bail denied by a federal magistrate who cited her private flight records to Zurich.
In the private library of the Romano estate, Walter Brennan was packing his small leather travel kit, preparing to return to his workshop in Pennsylvania.
Sebastian and I walked into the room together.
“Walter,” Sebastian said, stepping forward with an affectionate smile. “You don't need to take the train back to Pennsylvania.”
The old cobbler smiled gently, buckling his leather satchel.
“I have three pairs of work boots waiting on my bench, Sebastian. Old Mrs. Higgins needs her soles replaced by Saturday.”
Sebastian reached into his coat pocket, pulling out a set of brass keys attached to a leather fob embossed with an eagle.
“Mrs. Higgins will have to visit your new workshop on 5th Avenue, Walter,” Sebastian said softly.
Walter blinked in surprise, looking at the keys. “What's this?”
“I purchased the historic leathercraft atelier near Central Park this morning,” Sebastian explained, his voice thick with deep, unyielding gratitude. “A master workshop with four master apprentices, fully funded by the Romano Foundation. You will never pay rent, you will never pay for leather, and you will teach the next generation how to stitch shoes the way my father learned from you.”
Walter’s eyes filled with tears. His hands trembled as he closed his fingers around the brass keys.
“Sebastian... your father would be so proud,” the old man whispered, his voice cracking with emotion.
“My father is watching us right now, Walter,” Sebastian replied softly, wrapping his strong arm around the old man’s shoulders. “And he knows his shoes brought his family home.”
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Sebastian turned to me, offering his other arm.
“Come, Grace. The helicopter is ready at the pad. It is time to go see your mother.”
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