Chapter 10 - THE LOWCOUNTRY SUNRISE
One year later.
The early morning sun rose over the Atlantic Ocean, painting the lowcountry sky in brilliant streaks of gold, lavender, and soft orange.
On the grand back terrace of the Whitmore estate, overlooking the quiet, shimmering marshlands, a long white table was set for fifty guests.
It was the annual gala for the Whitmore-Vance Foundation—a newly rebranded charitable organization dedicated to providing legal protection, emergency shelter, and financial independence to victims of domestic abuse and corporate extortion across the country.
Claire stood near the edge of the terrace, holding a glass of fresh orange juice, watching the morning light catch the Spanish moss hanging from the live oaks.
She felt a pair of strong arms wrap gently around her waist from behind.
Alexander pressed a soft kiss against her temple, his chest warm and solid against her back.
"The catering team just arrived," Alexander whispered, his voice rich with affection. "And the governor’s motorcade is five minutes away."
Claire leaned back against him, closing her eyes, feeling the gentle breeze coming off the marsh.
"A year ago today," Claire murmured softly, "I was standing in this house believing I would never laugh again."
Alexander turned her around in his arms so he could look into her bright grey eyes.
"And today?" he asked softly.
Claire looked up at his handsome face, at the cold grey eyes that held nothing but unconditional love for her, at the estate that was once again filled with life, light, and purpose.
She reached up, resting her hand gently against his cheek.
May you like
"Today," Claire smiled, her voice steady, clear, and triumphant, "I own my life. And nobody will ever take it away again."
Alexander leaned down and kissed her—a deep, slow, passionate kiss under the rising South Carolina sun, as a new day broke over the lowcountry, bright, beautiful, and free.
