Chapter 7 - Sanctuary in the Quiet|
Three days later, Elise was cleared for discharge, but she couldn't return to the penthouse she had shared with Matthew. The media was camped outside the building, and the environment was far from safe.
Julian stood by her wheelchair in the hospital lobby, a soft wool blanket draped over her lap.
"I have a estate in Greenwich," Julian offered quietly. "It’s quiet, secure, and surrounded by fifty acres of private forest. No press, no Matthew, no stress. You can stay there for as long as you need."
Elise looked up at him, feeling a wave of hesitation. "Julian... you’ve already done so much for me. I can’t accept—"
"Elise," Julian interrupted gently, kneeling down so he was at eye level with her. "You need a safe place to rest and bring your daughter into the world. My estate has a full medical suite and a private security team. You aren't accepting charity; you are letting me protect you."
Elise looked into his gray eyes and saw no hidden motives, no arrogance, only an overwhelming, steady warmth. For the first time in years, she felt completely safe.
"Okay," she whispered. "Thank you."
An hour later, the black SUV pulled through the grand wrought-iron gates of the Sterling Estate in Connecticut. The property was breathtaking—a sweeping stone mansion surrounded by ancient oak trees, manicured gardens, and a peaceful lake glowing under the afternoon sun.
Julian helped her out of the vehicle and guided her into a sunlit bedroom on the ground floor. The room had floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a rose garden, a plush king-sized bed, and an adjoining nursery filled with soft, neutral furniture.
"I had my team set up the nursery yesterday," Julian said, looking a bit sheepish for the first time. "I wasn't sure what colors you liked, so we kept it simple."
Elise walked into the nursery, her hand touching a hand-carved wooden crib. Tears pricked her eyes.
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"It’s beautiful, Julian," she whispered, turning to look at him. "Matthew never even offered to help pick out a crib. He said we had people for that."
Julian stepped closer, his expression soft. "A child isn't a corporate project, Elise. She’s a miracle."
