Chapter 21
That evening, the city lights sparkled brilliantly against the dark canvas of the night sky, viewed from the floor-to-ceiling windows of Caroline’s penthouse apartment. The marble floors gleamed under warm ambient lighting, completely free of the ghosts of the past.
Caroline stood on the balcony, a glass of crisp white wine in her hand. The cool autumn breeze brushed against her collarbone, playing gently against the silk scarf she still wore.
The sliding glass door clicked open, and Elias stepped out onto the balcony, holding two steaming cups of coffee. He handed one to Caroline, taking a quiet sip from his own.
"The press is finally dispersing from the lobby," Elias said, leaning against the glass railing next to her. "The board meeting tomorrow morning is fully prepped. Vance Global is officially stabilized, and the audit reports show record quarterly growth."
"Good," Caroline murmured, taking a slow sip of her wine. "My father called me this afternoon."
Elias glanced sideways at her. "How is he?"
May you like
"Quiet," Caroline replied, gazing out at the endless horizon. "He’s staying at a small house near the coast. He told me he finally understands what it means to build a legacy on truth rather than illusions. I told him he could visit next spring, under supervision."
"That’s fair," Elias said softly. "You've shown a remarkable amount of grace, Caroline. More than most would after what you endured."
