Chapter 14 - THE SUNRISE ESTATE
Six months later, the Varric estate had been transformed.
The stark, oppressive gray stone had been softened by climbing jasmine and vibrant flowerbeds. The dark leather furnishings inside the main mansion had been replaced with warm, inviting decor. The foyer, once the site of screaming anguish and cold marble echo, now echoed with light, cheerful music and the sounds of a growing toddler.
Leo, now over a year old, was happily taking his first unsteady steps across the plush rugs, guided by Liana, who walked just behind him with open arms and a radiant smile.
Matteo stood near the open french doors leading out to the garden patio, watching them with a deep, peaceful contentment.
"He’s getting faster every day," Matteo said, laughing softly as Leo successfully navigated his way to a plush sofa and turned around to clap for himself.
"He’s determined," Liana said, kneeling beside Leo and wiping a speck of dust from his nose. "He gets that from his mother."
"And his stubbornness," Matteo added with a wink.
Arthur Pendelton walked out onto the patio, carrying a light leather portfolio. "Good afternoon, everyone. I brought the final paperwork for the foundation's new shelter project."
"Set it on the outdoor table, Arthur," Matteo said. "Join us for lunch."
"I would be glad to," the old lawyer replied, watching Leo kick a bright red ball across the grass. "It is good to see this house full of life again."
As they sat around the stone table under the shade of the grand oak trees, Liana looked around at the small circle of people who had become her family: Matteo, whose strength had protected them; Arthur, whose legal mind had secured their freedom; and Leo, whose innocent smile was the light that guided them through the darkest storm.
May you like
Liana pulled out a small silver locket she wore around her neck. Inside were two tiny photographs: one of her late son Leo’s original birth record, and one of Matteo’s biological son, Nico.
She clicked the locket closed and rested her hand gently over her heart. The pain would always remain a part of her story, but it no longer defined her future.
