Chapter 10: Storm over Oakhaven
Two months passed. The Sterling family was ruined, their assets frozen, and Victoria faced mandatory prison time following her conviction. Peace seemed to finally return to Oakhaven, but nature had other plans.
A massive late-autumn storm rolled in from the Atlantic, bringing torrential rain and gale-force winds that battered the coastal cliffs. The power lines to the estate were severed early in the evening, leaving Oakhaven lit only by candles and the roaring fireplace.
Inside her bedroom, Clara felt a sudden, sharp pain shoot across her lower back. She gasped, holding onto the bedpost.
Mrs. Gable entered the room with warm towels, immediately recognizing the signs. "Clara, dear... how far apart are the pains?"
"Five minutes," Clara panted, sweat glistening on her forehead. "Mrs. Gable... it’s too early. The baby isn't due for another three weeks!"
Julian rushed into the room, his white shirt sleeves rolled up, soaked from trying to clear fallen trees from the driveway. "The roads are blocked by mudslides," he said, his voice tight with concern. "The ambulance can't reach the cliff road."
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Clara gripped his hand tightly, her knuckles turning white as another contraction hit. "Julian... I'm scared!"
Julian knelt beside her bed, taking her hand in both of his. "Look at me, Clara. You are safe. I am right here, and we will get through this together."
