Elodie Finch gently rocked the bassinet

The return journey to the estate was a tense, heavily guarded procession. The armored SUVs tore through the city streets, disregarding traffic laws entirely. Soren sat in the back of the lead vehicle, holding Theo securely in his arms, his cold, perceptive eyes scanning the dark streets for any lingering threats.

The war with Camilla's father had already begun in earnest across the city. Soren's capos were executing a ruthless, systematic purge of the rival syndicate's assets and lieutenants. The Blackwell empire was demonstrating its absolute, terrifying supremacy.

When the convoy finally passed through the heavy iron gates of the estate, the sun was just beginning to rise, casting a brilliant, cinematic light over the pristine marble facade. The estate had survived the night, remaining a heavily fortified sanctuary.

Soren stepped out of the vehicle, bypassing the exhausted security operatives. He walked into the grand atrium, shedding his heavy tactical vest, leaving only his unbuttoned white shirt and dark trousers. He held Theo close, the infant having fallen asleep against his broad chest.

He bypassed his study and the grand dining hall, heading directly up the sweeping marble staircase toward the secure family wing.

He reached the heavy oak doors of the master suite. He didn't knock. He simply spoke through the thick wood.

"Elodie. It is Soren."

The heavy brass deadbolts clicked frantically, the sound loud in the quiet corridor. The door was pulled open, revealing Elodie standing in the threshold. She was still wearing the sophisticated black maid dress, her beautifully tapered face pale with exhaustion and anxiety.

When her expressive eyes landed on Soren, standing unharmed with the baby carrier strapped securely to his chest, the heavy burden of the night seemed to lift entirely from her slender shoulders.