Chapter 10 - The Lake Forest Return|
Three days later.
A fleet of five black armored SUVs pulled up the winding stone driveway of the Castille Estate in Lake Forest—a magnificent fifty-acre property surrounded by ancient oaks, iron gates, and high security walls.
The sun was shining brightly, illuminating the grand stone mansion where Mia had lived for six months before her escape.
Matthew stepped out of the lead SUV, turning around to help Mia out of the high leather seat.
She looked at the stone steps where she had walked away five months ago in the freezing rain.
"Does it feel strange being back?" Matthew asked softly, wrapping his arm around her waist as they walked up the steps.
"It feels different," Mia admitted, looking up into his storm-gray eyes. "Last time I was here, I felt like a prisoner waiting for a sentence. Now... I feel like I'm finally home."
The grand oak doors swung open.
The entire estate staff—over thirty housekeepers, chefs, gardeners, and security guards—stood in the foyer in two neat lines, led by the elderly head housekeeper, Mrs. Gable.
As Mia stepped through the door, every single employee bowed their head in deep, genuine respect.
"Welcome home, Mrs. Castille," Mrs. Gable said warmly, tears of joy in her eyes. "We have missed you terribly."
Mia smiled, tears pricking her eyes as she recognized the warm, familiar faces of the people who had treated her with kindness even when she was hiding.
May you like
Matthew looked down at her, his arm tightening around her waist, his heart fuller than it had ever been in his entire life.
"Your room has been prepared, my love," Matthew whispered into her ear. "And this time, no one will ever make you run again."
