Chapter 7 - A Change of Governance
By evening, the thunderstorm that had been brewing over the hills broke, sending heavy rain washing against the floor-to-ceiling windows of the villa's main drawing room.
Inside, a bright fire crackled in the massive stone fireplace.
Elena was packing the last of her belongings into a canvas bag in the guest cottage when a knock sounded at the door. She opened it to find Luca standing under the overhang, holding a large umbrella.
"Mr. De Santis," Elena said, stepping back. "We're almost ready to leave. The taxi should be here soon."
"Cancel the taxi," Luca said.
Elena paused, looking at him carefully. "Sir?"
"Your contract as a domestic worker is terminated," Luca said smoothly, stepping inside and shaking the rain from his coat. Before Elena’s heart could sink, he continued. "Effective tomorrow, you are the estate manager of Villa De Santis. Full executive authority over staff, security logistics, and household operations. Double the salary, permanent residence in the main wing."
Elena stared at him in utter disbelief. "Why?"
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"Because you raised a child who sees strength where others see fear," Luca said, his voice softening slightly as he looked toward the main house. "And because my home needs more than security protocols, Elena. It needs a soul."
From behind his leg, Nero trotted into the cottage, carrying his favorite rubber toy in his mouth, heading straight for the rug where Lily was playing with her wooden blocks.
