I thought about the dark nights I had spent hiding under tables, running from shadows.

I thought about the sound of Derek’s voice making my stomach turn.

That was over now.

“I agree,” I said, holding out my hand.

Vincent looked at my hand for a moment, then reached out and took it.

His grip was warm and dry.

“To a new beginning, Clara,” he said.

“To a new beginning,” I repeated.

We spent the next hour reviewing the financial ledgers, our voices quiet in the silent room.

The fire in the hearth crackled, casting long, dancing shadows across the mahogany walls.

The storm outside began to clear, the rain tapping softly against the glass.

I looked out the window at the dark lawns of the estate.

For the first time in years, the darkness did not feel hostile.

It felt like a quiet space where I could finally rest.

Vincent closed the ledger with a soft thud.

“That is enough for tonight,” he said.

“You should sleep.”

“Thank you, Vincent,” I said, rising from my chair.

“You do not need to thank me,” he said, rising as well.