Chapter 9 - The Purge of Ravencrest
Twenty minutes later, a rainstorm began to lash against the glass windows of Ravencrest Estate.
The heavy front doors of the estate swung open once more. Two private security guards, wearing black uniforms and raincoats, escorted Victoria out onto the grand marble steps. She carried a single leather suitcase, her white gown soaked through by the driving rain, her makeup ruined, her posture broken.
She didn't look back as the black gate at the end of the long driveway opened, letting her out into the dark, empty night.
Inside the grand foyer, the black-and-white checkered floor had been scrubbed clean.
Julian stood at the top of the double staircase, watching the rain beat against the arched stained-glass windows. He held little Leo wrapped securely in a warm, dry wool blanket. The child was fast asleep, its breathing soft, steady, and peaceful against its father's chest.
Martha walked up the stairs behind him, carrying a silver tray with a warm cup of chamomile tea. The swelling on her cheek had settled into a dull purple mark, but her eyes were clear and serene.
"She's gone, sir," Martha said softly, setting the tray down on a small marble table near the landing.
Julian didn't turn around immediately. He looked down at the black-and-white tiles below, where the violent storm of his family's life had played out an hour ago.
"Thank you, Martha," Julian said, his voice dropping its harsh edge, returning to the deep, warm tone of the man she had known since childhood. "If you hadn't stood between them..."
"I would have died before I let anyone hurt Clara's boy, Julian," Martha interrupted gently, her voice firm with an absolute, maternal devotion. "You know that."
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Julian turned to look at her. He reached out his hand, placing his broad palm gently on her uninjured shoulder, giving it a firm, grateful squeeze.
"This house belongs to him now," Julian murmured, looking down at his sleeping son. "No more lies. No more pretenders. Just us."
