Chapter 13 - The Vermont Retreat
Far from the concrete canyons of New York, Parker Pine Books offered a sanctuary of cedar smoke and falling autumn leaves. Clare sat by the bay window with her son, now nearly one year old, watching him chase golden maple leaves across the rustic wooden floorboards.
Julian stepped out from the back archives holding a steaming mug of tea, setting it gently beside Clare’s book.
"The Vermont appellate court upheld the injunction," Julian said with a quiet smile, sitting across from her. "Mercer House is officially secure. The board voted unanimously yesterday to ratify the restructuring plan."
Clare looked up, her eyes bright with relief. "No more shell companies? No more hidden clauses?"
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"Clean slate," Julian confirmed, reaching out to squeeze her hand. "My father’s vision is finally restored. And more importantly, you and Leo are untouchable."
Leo babbled happily, holding up a small wooden block carved in the shape of a pine tree. Clare scooped him up, burying her face in his curls. The ghost of Harrison’s control felt like a lifetime away, washed clean by the quiet mountain air and the absolute certainty that she had chosen freedom over fear.
