The same woman who had coolly directed chaos downstairs now looked almost sweet and harmless, her tough exterior giving way to a playful charm. Milton lounged in the doorway, watching his sister swap personas, an amused smirk tugging at his lips.

At once, Cole and Arthur left their game behind. Both turned to Elliana with unwavering focus.

Arthur’s tone was gentle as he asked, “Did all the action wear you out?”

Cole reached for her hand, his fingers moving in slow circles across her skin, hoping his massage would ease her sore muscles. “Let me know if your hand hurts. I can get you something for it.”

Grinning, Elliana beamed at them both. “Let’s have lunch.”

Arthur tousled her hair. “Come on. Let’s go. I’ve already had the kitchen prepare a feast for you.”

Together, the four of them strolled to the dining room. All tactically avoided bringing up Eva.

Laughter and easy conversation filled the air as they shared their meal.

Once everyone was full, Arthur addressed Elliana with a reassuring smile. “The first and second floors are under renovation, so for now, you’ll stay in the room next to Milton’s. Once everything’s ready, you’ll have the whole second floor to yourself.”

“That sounds perfect,” Elliana replied with a nod, her tone light and content. Now that her identity as a Campbell was known, it was only natural that she would live in the family home. Just the idea of sharing a roof with her father and brother brought a quiet happiness that lingered all morning. This content belongs to fin?novel.net

Across the room, Cole observed Lilah with a gentle smile. Though he kept his thoughts to himself, his mind was already at work, mapping out a future where their lives intertwined completely. He yearned to see her become his wife and dreamed of a home filled with laughter, comfort, and privacy—a world built for just the two of them.

The sheer number of properties under his name was impressive, but he had never asked what kind of home Lilah truly wanted. It hardly mattered; he’d give her anything she desired. If she wished for something he didn’t already own, he would buy a new one, no questions asked.

Stay tuned for more glnoνes.c?m

Then his thoughts drifted to Regal Grove. He treasured that estate more than anything. He had poured his heart into every inch of it, from the way the bricks lined the path to the way the grass bent in the wind. He had shaped it all with his own hands, built it with his own effort. If she loved it as much as he did, then it would be the perfect place for them. He made a mental note to take her there soon.

Arthur, of course, had no inkling of Cole’s plans. He had merely consented to them dating, while marriage was a conversation for the distant future. Breaking the companionable silence, Arthur probed, “Elliana, have you got anything planned for this afternoon?”

There was nothing on Elliana’s agenda.

Cole was just about to suggest taking her back to his family’s estate when her phone buzzed. An unknown number flashed on the screen.

Elliana quickly recalled that she’d used this number for her exam registration. Maybe the call had something to do with that. She pressed answer. “Hello?”

.

.

.