Chapter 10 - The Sanctuary of Peace
Two years later.
The evening air was soft and warm, carrying the scent of blooming jasmine and salty sea breeze off the Sound.
The grand dining room of the Vance estate was filled with the warm, cheerful chatter of a real family. Victor was sitting at the lower end of the table, showing Leo—now a energetic, dark-haired three-year-old—how to fold a paper airplane.
At the head of the table sat Dominic, looking relaxed, wearing a casual linen shirt, his hand resting comfortably over Nora’s as they finished their evening meal.
Nora was glowing, her dark hair pinned back gracefully, wearing a soft cream dress that draped gently over her rounded belly—she was seven months pregnant with their second child, a little girl.
After dinner, as the guests departed and the house settled into its quiet evening rhythm, Dominic and Nora walked up the grand staircase together.
Dominic carried a sleepy Leo in his arms, the boy’s head resting heavily against his father’s broad shoulder, his small fingers hooked into Dominic’s collar.
They walked into the nursery.
The room had been repainted in warm, golden tones. The dark grey storm walls were gone, replaced by painted mural trees, soft carpets, and bright bookshelves.
Dominic gently laid Leo down in his bed. The toddler stirred slightly, rubbing his eyes, his mouth scrunching up as if preparing to protest the end of the day.
Nora walked up to the side of the bed. She didn't use any tactics. She didn't need any military discipline.
She simply leaned down, kissed Leo’s forehead, and placed her soft, warm hand gently onto his chest.
Dominic stepped up behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist, resting his big hand over hers, their combined warmth resting together over their son’s heart.
Leo let out a long, contented sigh. His eyes drifted closed, his little body melting into the mattress, surrounded by absolute safety, absolute love, and profound peace.
Dominic leaned down, whispering into Nora’s ear. "How's his heart rate?"
Nora smiled, leaning back into her husband's chest, feeling his strong, steady heartbeat against her back, and the light kicks of their unborn daughter against her side.
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"It’s perfect," Nora whispered back, turning her face to press a kiss to Dominic's jawline. "Just like ours."
Outside the window, the stars shone brightly over the quiet, peaceful estate, guarding a house that was no longer a kingdom of shadows, but a sanctuary of love.
