Chapter 4 - The Fortress on the Hill
Within fifteen minutes, airport security had detained Arthur for airport disturbance and assault charges after reviewing security footage of him shoving Marcus.
As Arthur was led away in handcuffs, screaming threats that he would take Maya from me forever, Julian calmly took my heavy suitcase with one hand and took Maya’s small hand with the other.
“Come,” Julian said softly. “You aren't safe in a hotel.”
I was too shaken to argue. We were driven in a bulletproof black Mercedes SUV away from the airport, winding through the ancient streets of Rome, heading toward the rolling hills of Tuscany. Two hours later, the gates of a massive, walled estate opened to reveal Villa Vane—a stunning stone estate surrounded by cypress trees, olive groves, and high-security fencing.
A team of domestic staff and private security guards greeted us at the courtyard.
“Welcome home, sir,” the housekeeper, an older Italian woman named Maria, said warmly, taking Leo’s carrier gently.
Julian led Maya and me into a breathtaking guest wing overlooking the gardens. “This wing is yours for as long as you need it, Clara,” Julian said, turning to face me in the sunlit hallway. “My security team monitors the estate twenty-four hours a day. Your husband cannot touch you here.”
I sank onto the edge of the plush velvet sofa, my hands shaking uncontrollably as the adrenaline finally left my system. Maya ran over to inspect a wooden rocking horse in the corner.
“Why are you doing this for us, Mr. Vane?” I asked, tears finally spilling over my lashes. “You don't know me. I’m just a displaced nurse running from a nightmare.”
May you like
Julian sat down in the chair across from me. He reached out, his large, warm hand covering my trembling knuckles.
“Three weeks ago, when my wife died, I believed the world was a cold, transactional place,” Julian said quietly. “I thought money could fix anything, yet I couldn't save her, and I couldn't comfort my own son. Then you walked out of economy class, put my baby to your breast, and brought peace back into my life. What you gave my son was priceless, Clara. Protecting you is the least I can do.”
