“That is a wonderful idea,” I said, feeling a warmth spread through my chest.

“He also offered to fund your education, Emily,” my father added, his eyes searching mine.

“He said you have a sharp mind for the law.”

I looked down at my hands, remembering the years I spent scrubbing pots in the dark kitchen.

“I want to do it, Dad,” I said. “I want to make sure this never happens to anyone else.”

“Then you must do it,” my father said, his voice filled with pride.

A month later, the demolition of the Crystal Oak Restaurant began.

The city had condemned the building after the police raid revealed the underground facility.

I stood across the street, wrapped in a thick wool coat, watching the heavy iron wrecking ball swing.

With a deafening crash, the brick facade of the restaurant crumbled into dust.

The neon sign, which had flickered with a cold red light for so many years, shattered on the pavement.

Charles stood beside me, his hands buried deep in his coat pockets.

“Do you feel any regret seeing it go?” Charles asked, the wind whipping his hair.