Chapter 1 - The Defiance
Julian’s jaw tightened imperceptibly. “Are you implying that my children lack proper discipline?”
Clara didn’t flinch, though her hands trembled against her muddy skirt. “I’m implying, Mr. Rossi, that they are three years old. They lack a mother. They lack normalcy. Discipline keeps them quiet, but it doesn't keep them happy. This rope—” She gestured to the frayed hemp. “Elena’s old gardening rope. I found it in her greenhouse. There was a note attached to it. It said, ‘For my boys, to learn how to pull together.’”
Julian felt the air leave his lungs. Elena had written that? He stared at the mud-soaked rope, suddenly seeing it not as a ruined lawn, but as a bridge from the past. He looked at Roman, who was watching him with wide, fearful eyes.
Slowly, Julian unbuttoned his expensive navy overcoat. He let it fall to the wet grass. He unfastened his platinum cufflinks, rolling up the sleeves of his tailored shirt. The armed guards who had silently gathered at the perimeter of the lawn exchanged shocked glances.
“Mr. Rossi?” Clara whispered.
May you like
“You’re outmatched, Miss Hayes,” Julian said, his voice dropping an octave. He stepped into the mud, his polished oxfords sinking instantly. He picked up the end of the rope behind his sons. “Roman. Rocco. Reid. Brace your feet.”
The boys shrieked in absolute delight. Clara’s eyes widened before a radiant, breathtaking smile broke across her face. She dug her heels in. For the first time in ten months, Julian Rossi pulled. He didn't pull for territory or blood. He pulled for the sound of his children’s laughter. And as Clara tumbled forward into the mud with a dramatic yelp, Julian realized his chest didn’t hurt anymore.
