Chapter 11: Rekindling the Hearth
Back at the estate, the oppressive gloom of the previous year began to dissipate. Luca hired local contractors to renovate the mansion, tearing down heavy velvet drapes and replacing dark mahogany panels with bright, airy oak and wide glass panels that welcomed natural light.
The old wheelchair, once a symbol of captivity, was removed from the foyer and placed in storage—a quiet reminder of the resilience forged in silence.
Lily's laughter filled the gardens as she chased their new rescue golden retriever across the manicured lawns. Marcus, now officially instated as Chief of Estate Security and Family Operations, stood on the terrace with a warm cup of coffee.
"It’s good to hear life in this place again, Boss," Marcus remarked.
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"It’s no longer a monument to grief, Marcus," Luca said, watching his daughter throw a tennis ball across the grass. "It’s a home."
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