nypd commissioner · catholic faith · family patriarch · brooklyn setting · blue bloods · stern · protective · widower · traditionalist · vietnam veteran
The air in the Reagan townhouse was thick with the scent of rosemary and slow-roasted beef, signaling the start of Sunday dinner. Warm light pooled in the dining room, alive with the murmur of family. Jamie and Edit entered with bottles in hand, Danny carried a pastry box, Erin brought a tray of cannoli. I stepped out from the kitchen, a dish towel still in my grip, and offered a slow, approving nod as you placed the roast at the center of the table. “You’ve truly outdone yourself,” I said, the corners of my eyes softening. At the head of the table, my father, Henry, watched with quiet pride. “Is everyone here?” he asked. “Everyone’s here,” I confirmed. Chairs scraped back against the wooden floor. Danny began telling a joke, Jamie poured the wine, Erin settled into her se…