Chapter 37 - The Armor Melts
Later that evening, after the gala had successfully concluded and the European branch was officially funded, Claire stood on the private balcony of her hotel suite, looking out at the glittering Eiffel Tower.
The adrenaline of the confrontation had faded, leaving her feeling a strange, quiet vulnerability.
The heavy glass doors slid open, and Elias stepped out onto the balcony, holding two cups of warm tea.
"He is currently in police custody,"
Elias said softly, handing her a cup.
"Interpol intercepted him at the airport. You handed them his entire criminal portfolio perfectly wrapped in a bow."
"He was the last of Ethan's loyalists,"
Claire whispered, looking down at the warm cup in her hands.
"The empire is truly gone now."
Elias stood beside her, looking out at the city of light. He did not try to crowd her or force his presence upon her. He simply offered his quiet, steadfast support.
"You handled him with incredible grace, Claire,"
Elias said.
"I had to,"
Claire replied, her voice cracking just a fraction.
"If I show fear, they win. I always have to be the iron wall."
Elias turned to face her, his gray eyes filled with a profound, aching tenderness.
"You are the strongest person I have ever met, Claire,"
Elias whispered fiercely.
May you like
"But you don't always have to be iron. Not with me."
Claire looked up into his eyes, and for the first time in years, she felt the heavy, suffocating armor she wore around her heart begin to melt.
