I like the concept, and I agree that it is more realistic for Dudley to continue in his established ways that to suddenly reform. That DOES happen, but so rarely that the smart money will never bet on it.
I hope you continue this for at least a Chapter or two more, because I also feel it leaves way too many loose ends dangling as it is. The ending is a great "cliffie" if more is to come, but a terrible ending for a story. Like suddenly saying "...and then the little boy woke up."