Chapter 7 - The Safe HavenThe grand limestone gates of the Reed Estate swung open as Douglas’s car glided up the winding driveway.
For Monica and Nina, stepping into the massive, sunlit foyer was like entering another universe. High ceilings, polished marble floors, and sweeping staircases spoke of staggering wealth. But tonight, Douglas had instructed the domestic staff to strip away the coldness—candles flickered on the mahogany console, a warm fire crackled in the library hearth, and a freshly prepared dinner sat waiting in the dining room.
Upstairs in the master guest suite, Nina was tucked into a plush, oversized canopy bed.
Douglas sat on the edge of the mattress, reading a fairy tale book to his niece, watching as her heavy eyelids finally began to droop.
“Uncle Douglas?” Nina whispered sleepily.
“Yes, sweetheart?”
“Are we going to be safe here?”
Douglas smiled, gently brushing a stray lock of brown hair from her forehead. “Always, Nina. Nobody will ever hurt you or your mom again. I promise.”
Nina smiled softly, drifting off to sleep.
Douglas stood up quietly, closing the book, and walked out into the dimly lit hallway.
Monica was standing by the tall arched window, looking out over the sprawling courtyard where the rain had finally stopped, leaving the city lights glittering in the distance.
“She looks just like you did when you were seven,” Douglas said softly, walking up beside her.
Monica let out a quiet, melancholy laugh. “She has our mother’s eyes. That’s what David always said.” She turned to face her brother, her expression softening with genuine gratitude. “Thank you, Douglas. For everything. I know I screamed at you in the hospital... I was just so scared.”
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“You had every right to be angry, Mon,” Douglas replied honestly. “I walked away when you needed me most. I traded family for a bank account. And it took a car crash and a photograph in the mud to remind me of what I actually lost.”
Monica reached out, her hand resting gently on his arm. “We have a second chance, Douglas. Let’s not waste it.”
