Chapter 15: The New Normal
The first six months of Leo’s life were a blur of sleepless nights, warm bottles, and a profound, grounding love that Vivian had never known existed. The upstate estate, once just a quiet retreat for Arthur, had come completely alive. Baby toys littered the expensive Persian rugs, and the grand hallways frequently echoed with Leo’s bright, bubbling laughter.
Arthur, the ruthless titan of industry, had fully embraced his new role. He frequently took conference calls while pacing the library, gently bouncing a sleeping Leo against his chest. His board of directors quickly learned that a sudden pause on the line usually meant the baby had dropped his pacifier.
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As for the Mercers, their downfall had been swift and absolute. Without the backing of Vance Holdings, Mercer Financial lost their most lucrative contracts within weeks. The high-society crowd that had attended the disastrous wedding quickly distanced themselves from Julian and Eleanor, treating them like social pariahs.
Vivian occasionally saw their names in the financial papers her father left on the kitchen counter—headlines detailing massive layoffs and downsizing. But it all felt like it was happening in another universe. Vivian felt no triumph in their ruin, only a quiet, resolute indifference. Her world was no longer defined by their shallow standards. Her world was right here, in the smell of baby powder, the rustle of the autumn leaves outside, and the unwavering safety of her father’s home.
