Chapter 18 - The New Era
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Six months later, Ravenscliffe was unrecognizable.
The oppressive, terrifying atmosphere that had choked the mansion during Bruno’s reign was completely gone. The estate was filled with light, laughter, and the chaotic energy of a seven-year-old boy running through the halls with a plastic sword.
Nell no longer wore a gray uniform. She wore tailored suits and elegant dresses, stepping comfortably into her role not just as Rafe’s partner, but as a formidable presence in the Santoro business empire. She used her sharp mind to help Ezra reorganize the legitimate shipping routes, ensuring the corruption of the past never returned.
Mrs. Croll still managed the household, but she treated Nell with a profound, terrifying respect, entirely aware that the former maid now ruled the castle.
It was the night of the annual Santoro charity gala. The ballroom was packed with the elite of Boston, glittering under the massive crystal chandeliers.
Nell stood on the balcony, taking a moment to breathe the cool night air. She looked down at her wrist, where the faint, silver scar from Teddy’s knife had healed perfectly, a permanent reminder of the fire she had walked through to get here.
The glass doors opened behind her.
Rafe stepped out onto the balcony, looking devastatingly handsome in his tuxedo. He wrapped his arms around her waist from behind, pulling her flush against his chest, kissing the sensitive skin beneath her ear.
“You are hiding from our guests, mia regina,” Rafe murmured, his breath warm against her neck.
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“I’m just taking a moment to appreciate the view,” Nell smiled, leaning back into his embrace. “It’s a long way from the attic room.”
“You own the attic,” Rafe replied softly, turning her around to face him. “You own the ballroom. You own me.”
