Chapter 19: A New Foundation
"Home" was no longer the oppressive Vance estate. Ethan had put the sprawling mansion on the market the very next day. It held too many ghosts, too many echoes of cruelty ringing off marble floors.
Instead, they drove to the outskirts of the city, pulling up to a beautiful, modern farmhouse nestled on ten acres of rolling green hills. It was flooded with natural light, featuring warm oak floors, massive windows, and a sprawling backyard with a massive oak tree perfect for climbing.
Leo ran out of the SUV the moment Marcus opened the door, his laughter ringing out across the manicured lawn as he chased a yellow butterfly.
Clara stepped out of the car, carrying a box of books. She paused, taking in the sight of the beautiful property. She had used a portion of the trust Ethan had given her to enroll in a local university, pursuing a degree in early childhood education. She had her own suite in the new house, no longer an employee, but an indispensable part of their lives.
"What do you think?" Ethan asked, coming up beside her and taking the heavy box from her hands.
May you like
"It's bright," Clara smiled, watching Leo tumble into the soft grass, completely unhurt and giggling. "It doesn't feel like a museum."
"No marble floors," Ethan agreed, a genuine smile touching his lips. "Only hardwood and rugs. And a whole lot of space for a boy to actually be a boy."
