The New Dawn
Chapter 10 - The New Dawn
One year later.
The sun shone brightly over the grand gardens of Blackwood Manor. The dark, cold atmosphere that had once hung over the estate had been completely replaced by the sounds of joy and life.
On the lush green lawn, two-year-old Ethan—completely healed and full of boundless energy—was chasing a golden retriever puppy, his loud, ringing laughter filling the warm summer air. His left arm was strong and whole, tossing a small red ball across the grass.
Sitting on the shaded terrace above the garden, Lily leaned back against a comfortable cushioned sofa, a sweet smile gracing her lips as she watched him. She wore an elegant white summer dress, and around her neck hung the platinum necklace with the blue diamond, shimmering brightly in the sunlight.
From behind her, two strong arms wrapped gently around her waist. Victor leaned down, pressing a warm kiss onto the side of her neck, resting his chin on her shoulder.
“He’s getting faster every day,” Victor chuckled softly, watching his son tumble playfully into the grass with the puppy.
“He takes after his father,” Lily smiled, turning her head to kiss his cheek.
Below the terrace, Marco walked up, holding a secure tablet. “Boss, the quarterly reports from the European shipping routes are ready. And... Arthur Montigue’s final appeal for bankruptcy relief was denied by the court today.”
Victor didn't even turn his head. He kept his arm securely wrapped around Lily’s waist, pulling her closer against his chest.
“Send the reports to my office,” Victor said dismissively. “And as for the Montigues... I don't care. Their name no longer exists in this city.”
“Yes, boss,” Marco bowed respectfully and walked away.
Lily leaned her head back against Victor’s chest, feeling the steady, strong beat of his heart. The terrifying shadows of the past, the cruelty of Serena, and the fear that had once consumed her were completely gone.
Ethan ran up the stone steps of the terrace, holding a yellow wildflower he had picked from the garden. He held it up toward Lily with his tiny hands, his bright blue eyes beaming with love.
“Mama! For you!” Ethan cheered, jumping into her lap.
May you like
Lily caught him in her arms, kissing his soft, rosy cheek over and over as Ethan giggled uncontrollably. Victor leaned down, wrapping his broad arms around both of them, shielding his family under the warm, unbreakable dawn.
They were no longer master and nanny. They were a family—bound not by blood or political contracts, but by an unbreakable vow forged in the shadows, built on love, protection, and eternal devotion.
