Chapter 18 - The Morning AfterThe following morning, the sun broke through the thick fog over Blackwood Manor.
The courtyard had been scrubbed clean, the broken glass swept away, the bodies disposed of in the deep ocean.
To the outside world, it was just another quiet, wealthy estate in Northern California.
Inside, a new era had begun.
Elena stood in the security hub, wearing a sleek black tactical suit instead of a gray dress.
She was rapidly reconfiguring the camera network, blocking the vulnerabilities she had exploited the night before.
Marcus stood respectfully behind her, taking notes as she issued new patrol routes.
He didn't question a single command.
Cassian walked into the room, holding two steaming cups of coffee.
He handed one to Elena, his fingers briefly brushing against hers.
"Turkish, exactly how you like it," he said with a charming smile.
She took a sip, her eyes widening in surprise.
"It is perfect," she admitted.
"I pay attention to the details, just like you," he replied smoothly.
Marcus quietly slipped out of the room, leaving them alone.
May you like
Elena looked at the monitors, watching the reinforced gates close securely.
The empire was safe.
