Chapter 8
By sunrise, the storm had cleared, leaving the massive glass windows of the estate sparkling under a pale, sharp morning light.
Word had already begun to spread through the city's underground networks and morning news columns. The headlines were explosive: RONAN BLACKWOOD CALLS OFF HIGH-SOCIETY ENGAGEMENT! MYSTERY WOMAN TAKES OVER BLACKWOOD ESTATE!
Inside the grand dining hall, Ivy stood by the long mahogany table, reviewing the logistical reports for the upcoming estate gala next month. Her shoulder still throbbed slightly beneath her new, tailored charcoal uniform—a stark upgrade from the simple navy dress, designed specifically for her new administrative rank.
Viktor walked into the room, holding a heavy silver tray with the morning mail. He stopped, giving Ivy a long, calculating look before offering a subtle, respectful nod.
"Morning, Miss Lancaster," Viktor said, his tone entirely different from the cold indifference he had shown her just twenty-four hours earlier. "The security reports from the eastern gates are on your desk. No sign of Vance’s people, but we've doubled the perimeter patrols per your recommendation."
"Thank you, Viktor," Ivy replied, keeping her voice calm and professional. "Make sure the kitchen staff receives the new delivery schedules before noon."
"Consider it done."
As Viktor turned to leave, the heavy double doors of the dining hall swung open once more.
Ronan walked in, dressed in a sharp three-piece suit, looking as if he hadn't missed a single hour of sleep. His dark eyes immediately found Ivy standing at the head of the long table, managing the estate’s operations with absolute composure.
A quiet sense of satisfaction settled over him. For the first time in years, his home didn't feel like a fortress guarded against enemies; it felt like a place he actually wanted to return to.
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"You're up early," Ronan noted, walking over and pouring himself a cup of black coffee from the silver urn.
"There's a lot of work to fix after last night’s mess," Ivy replied without looking up from her tablet, though a faint smile played on her lips. "If I'm going to run this estate, I intend to do it right."
