Chapter 10 - The Second Draft
One entire year later, the sprawling Sterling estate was absolutely no longer a cold, empty museum.
There were sticky fingerprints happily smeared on the expensive glass doors.
There were colorful wooden toys scattered unapologetically across the imported Persian rugs.
The grand kitchen smelled permanently of cinnamon, fresh coffee, and loud, joyous laughter.
Julian stood casually at the marble kitchen island, successfully flipping a golden pancake onto Mia’s waiting plate.
Nora walked into the room, holding a fresh canvas and a small set of watercolor paints.
She was no longer wearing a stiff, navy-blue housekeeper's apron.
She was wearing one of Julian’s oversized dress shirts, and a beautiful diamond ring sparkled brilliantly on her left hand.
She walked up closely behind Julian, wrapping her arms securely around his waist and resting her chin on his broad shoulder.
Julian turned his head slightly, kissing her softly and deeply on the forehead.
Harper ran suddenly into the kitchen, holding up a brand new drawing she had just finished upstairs.
It was a vibrant picture of a deeply happy family standing under a bright yellow sun.
There was a tall man, two smiling little girls, and a beautiful mother with bright green eyes.
“Look, Daddy,” Harper beamed proudly, showing the paper to Julian and Nora.
“I finally finished the second draft.”
Julian looked at the beautiful drawing, then looked down at his future wife, his heart completely and utterly full.
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There were no more shadows hiding in the corners of their home.
They had finally weathered the bitter storm, and they were completely, beautifully safe.
