Chapter 9: An Uneasy Truce
Victoria stepped out onto the patio wearing a beige silk loungewear set. Her blonde hair was styled impeccably, though her expression remained guarded and cool. She looked at Julian and Elena standing together by the pool, and a flicker of resentment crossed her features before she masked it with a polite, forced smile.
"Good morning," Victoria said smoothly, her voice measured. She walked over, keeping her distance from the water. "Elena. I wanted to apologize for my reaction last night. Adrenaline takes over, and... well, things got confused in the dark."
Elena looked at Victoria, recognizing the forced nature of the apology, but nodded graciously. "Thank you, Mrs. Julian. I understand. It was a terrifying moment for everyone."
Victoria’s jaw tightened slightly at the professional title, but she let it slide. She turned her attention to her husband. "Animal control is coming at ten. I already called them from my phone. Let's just put last night behind us and move forward. We have a lot of planning to do for Leo's six-month christening next weekend."
Julian looked at his wife searchingly, trying to read beneath the polished surface. "Christening planning can wait until the yard is secure, Victoria. But yes, let's move forward." He set his coffee mug down on the patio table. "I have to head into the office early. There's a zoning meeting I can't miss."
As Julian kissed Victoria’s cheek and offered a polite nod to Elena before heading to his car, the atmosphere on the patio remained stiff. Victoria waited until the garage door closed before turning her full attention to the maid.
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"Listen to me, Elena," Victoria said softly, stepping closer so her voice wouldn't carry. The polite mask dropped completely, revealing the hard edge underneath. "You won the round last night because of a camera lens. Enjoy it. But don't ever think you hold any real power in this house. You're here to clean and assist. Keep your place, and we won't have any more dramatic scenes."
Elena met Victoria’s gaze without flinching. She didn't blink, and she didn't shrink back. "My only priority is keeping that baby safe, Mrs. Julian. As long as he is safe, you won't hear another word from me."
