Chapter 6 - The Healing of the SovereignThree weeks after the sunrise council, the Carretti estate was filled with the quiet, sunlit warmth of a crisp autumn afternoon.
The dark, toxic shadow of Leo’s betrayal was permanently erased from their lives.
Clara sat on the grand sunlit terrace overlooking the private gardens, wearing an elegant ivory silk dress, her left arm resting comfortably in her sleek black cast, which was now signed in silver marker with a small heart drawn by Dominic.
She held a cup of warm chamomile tea in her right hand, watching the red and gold leaves drift slowly across the manicured lawns.
Footsteps echoed softly against the flagstone patio.
Dominic walked out through the French doors, carrying two crystal glasses of sparkling water and fresh lemon. He wore a simple white linen shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his forearms, looking relaxed, peaceful, and fiercely devoted.
He set a glass down on the table and sat down beside her, pulling his chair close enough that his broad shoulder brushed hers.
"How is the arm today, Clara?" Dominic asked softly, his gray eyes searching her face with deep, unhurried tenderness.
"Dr. Vance says the bone is fusing perfectly," Clara answered with a warm, genuine smile. "The cast comes off in two weeks."
Dominic reached out, taking her healthy right hand in his calloused palm, pressing a gentle, lingering kiss against her knuckles.
"You saved my life in that garage, Clara," Dominic whispered, his voice thick with a husband’s profound, enduring reverence. "And you tried to bear the pain alone just to keep peace in my world."
May you like
Clara squeezed his hand tightly. "I did it because I love you, Dominic. But I learned that hiding my pain from you was a mistake."
"Never again," Dominic promised softly, looking into her hazel eyes. "From this day forward, no secrets. No hidden bruises. We face every storm together."
