Chapter 8 - The Cleansing Rain
Within twenty-four hours of Moretti’s expulsion, the house underwent a thorough purging.
Victor Vance, operating with terrifying efficiency, rooted out the remaining moles within the estate staff—including Clara, the senior upstairs maid, who had been passing security schedules to the New York syndicate in exchange for payoffs. By Sunday evening, Clara and two corrupt security guards were sitting in the back of a black van heading toward an unsscheduled, permanent retirement in South America.
Mara stood in the newly renovated private kitchen on the second floor, stirring a pot of chicken broth. The air in Grayhaven House no longer smelled of copper and fear. It smelled of bleach, fresh flowers, and roasted herbs.
A soft knock sounded at the door.
Mara opened it to find Victor Vance standing there. The enforcer looked different—the permanent scowl etched into his forehead had softened just a fraction, and he was holding a small, brightly wrapped package tied with a pink ribbon.
"For Lila," Victor said, clearing his throat awkwardly and holding out the box.
Mara blinked in surprise. "Mr. Vance? What is this?"
"It’s a digital tablet," Victor muttered, looking down at his polished shoes. "With educational apps. And... some drawing software. The boss asked me to pick it up in the city." He paused, adjusting his tie. "She likes drawing. And she’s... well, she’s part of the household now. Officially."
May you like
Mara took the box, her eyes shining with unshed tears. "Thank you, Mr. Vance. That’s... that’s very kind of you."
"Don't make a habit of thanking me," Victor grumbled, though a faint hint of a smile touched his lips. "The boss is waiting in the east wing solarium. He wants her to show him how to use it."
