Chapter 10 - The True Home
Six months later.
The sun was setting over the estate, casting a warm golden glow across the rolling green hills and polished stone paths.
The grand lawn—where Santiago’s clothes had once been scattered in the snow—was now decorated with white silk canopies, glowing fairy lights, and tables adorned with white orchids and eucalyptus.
It was our wedding day.
It wasn't a massive, political corporate event like my first marriage. There were no fake smiles, no toxic relatives, and no hidden agendas. It was an intimate celebration with fifty of our closest friends, business partners, and my legal team who had become family.
Samantha Duncan stood near the bar, raising a glass of vintage champagne with a triumphant smile.
I stood near the edge of the patio, wearing a stunning, backless satin gown that trailed gracefully behind me. I looked down at my hand—the engagement ring now paired with a simple, elegant platinum band.
Julian walked up behind me, wrapping his arms around my waist, resting his chin gently on my shoulder.
"Thinking about the past?" he asked softly.
"No," I replied, leaning back against his solid chest, turning my head to kiss his cheek. "I’m thinking about the future."
"The future looks pretty bright from here," Julian smiled, sliding his hand down to hold mine.
Earlier that morning, Samantha had dropped off one final piece of legal news as a wedding gift: Santiago had attempted to file yet another frivolous petition from prison to contest our prenuptial agreement, but the high court had permanently barred him from filing any further legal actions against me, labeling him a vexatious litigant. He was legally, permanently erased from my life.
He was in a dark cell, eating tray meals, while I was standing in my kingdom, surrounded by true love and absolute freedom.
"Ready to cut the cake, Mrs. Vance?" Julian whispered playfully into my ear.
I turned around in his arms, smiling up at my husband—a man who had proven that true love doesn't demand submission, but empowers strength.
"I’m ready, Mr. Vance," I laughed softly. "But remember... this house is still legally mine."
Julian threw his head back and laughed—a rich, joyful sound that echoed across the peaceful gardens.
"My dear Chloe," Julian said, kissing my lips with deep, unyielding tenderness. "This entire universe is yours. I’m just lucky enough to live in it."
May you like
Hand in hand, we walked toward the glowing lights and laughing guests on the lawn. I looked up at the clear, starry night sky, feeling the cool, beautiful breeze on my face.
The scars were healed. The war was won. And I was finally, truly, home.
