Chapter 4: The Sanctuary
Oakhaven was a secluded manor perched on a cliff overlooking the roaring Atlantic Ocean. Far from the political games of the city, the estate felt like a fortress built against the outside world. An elderly housekeeper named Mrs. Gable greeted them at the door, her face softening with immediate compassion when she saw Clara's fragile state.
Within hours, Clara was bathed, her lip treated, and settled into a warm, sunlit bedroom facing the ocean. A private physician examined her and confirmed that despite the stress and trauma, the baby was healthy and strong.
That evening, Julian entered the library where Clara sat wrapped in a sweater, staring at the fire in the hearth. He held two cups of warm tea, placing one on the side table beside her.
"Dr. Evans says you need rest," Julian said, taking a seat in the armchair opposite her.
"I can't rest," Clara murmured, looking into the flames. "Every time I close my eyes, I see Victoria in the fog. I see the look in her eyes. She wanted to hurt my baby, Julian."
Julian’s jaw tightened, a vein pulsing near his temple. "Victoria will answer for every drop of blood you shed today. The legal team is already filing charges for assault and corporate fraud. She will never come near you again."
May you like
Clara looked up at him, her dark eyes searching his face. "Why are you doing all this? Is it just out of duty? Because of the baby?"
Julian looked into the fire, a rare vulnerability breaking through his stoic composure. "Because when you vanished six months ago, I realized that the house wasn't just quiet, Clara. It was empty."
