Chapter 20 - Winter's Embrace
That night, a gentle snow began to fall over the city, blanketing the streets in a soft, pristine white.
Emma stood by the floor-to-ceiling windows of her penthouse, looking out over the glittering skyline. The fireplace crackled warmly behind her. In her arms, she held a sleeping Mia, while Leo dozed peacefully on the sofa nearby, draped in a thick, heated blanket.
Marcus stepped quietly into the room, holding a mug of hot cocoa. He set it on the side table. "Perimeter is secure, ma'am. It's going to be a cold one tonight."
"Thank you, Marcus," Emma said softly, never taking her eyes off the falling snow.
May you like
She remembered the biting wind, the cruel laughter, and the terrifying desperation of that night on the Sterling porch. It felt like a lifetime ago. The winter had once been her enemy, a weapon used against her by a man who lacked a heart.
But as she held her daughter close, feeling the steady, rhythmic beat of the little girl's heart, Emma smiled. The snow outside was freezing, but inside, they were safe. They were loved. And they were finally home.
