Chapter 8 - A New FoundationTwo weeks later.
The basement apartment in the damp Seattle alleyway was gone. In its place stood a charming, sunlit craftsman home in a quiet neighborhood with a sprawling green lawn and a white picket fence—complete with a tire swing hanging from an ancient oak tree in the front yard.
Clara stood on the front porch boxes scattered around her, holding a cup of hot tea. Her color had returned, her cheeks full and healthy, her eyes bright with a sense of security she had never known in her entire adult life.
Down on the grass, Hope was squealing with laughter as she chased a golden retriever puppy across the lawn.
Cameron walked out of the front door, carrying a final cardboard box labeled Kitchen Supplies. He set it down gently and leaned against the porch railing beside her.
“You didn't have to buy us a house, Cameron,” Clara said softly, looking over at him with profound gratitude and a hint of vulnerability. “You’ve already done too much.”
“I didn't buy it for you as charity,” Cameron corrected gently, turning to face her. “I bought it as an investment. In a very small company called Scott & West Consulting, specializing in ethical labor reform and corporate restructuring. And as my primary business partner, you happen to need a place close to the office.”
Clara laughed—a rich, melodic sound that made the spring air feel warmer. “Business partner, huh? And what’s my salary?”
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“Enough to never work three jobs again,” Cameron smiled, stepping closer. “Enough to be home for dinner every night. And enough to take a real vacation to Florida to surprise your mother, without worrying about missed flights.”
Clara’s breath hitched. She looked into his eyes and saw no corporate ambition, no cold calculation—only a man who had finally found his true north.
