Chapter 22: The Sanctuary
Chapter 22: The Sanctuary
The winter snow returned to the Hudson Valley, but this time, there was no feeling of cold isolation. The Shaker Heights mansion was glowing with warm amber Christmas lights, pine garlands hanging along the grand marble staircase, and a giant tree decorated with handmade ornaments sitting in the main hall.
Harper, now five years old, was sitting on the rug near the roaring fireplace, carefully placing presents under the tree while singing along to holiday music.
Mia sat on the sofa, wrapped in a comfortable cashmere blanket, holding a cup of warm tea, her baby bump clearly visible. Dominic sat beside her, gently rubbing her back, his expression pure contentment.
I stood by the window, watching the gentle snow fall over the peaceful grounds. The iron foundry, the courtroom battles, the shadow of the Chicago board—all of it felt like a distant lifetime ago.
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"Come join us," Mia called out to me with a warm smile. "No work reports allowed on Christmas Eve."
I laughed, setting my phone on the side table, and walked over to sit by the hearth with the family that had redefined my own purpose in life.
