Chapter 9 - The Foundation
Spring returned to Blackmere House, bringing warmer breezes and yellow daffodils blooming along the coastal cliffs.
Nora sat in her private office on the ground floor of the estate—a beautiful room that had been completely renovated for her. The walls were lined with white bookcases, and a large mahogany desk held a high-end laptop and stacks of architectural blueprints.
She was no longer just managing the estate's domestic affairs; she had established the Vale-Blackmere Foundation—a non-profit organization funded by Roman’s vast resources, dedicated to providing safe housing, legal protection, and financial independence for women escaping domestic abuse.
A knock sounded on her open door.
Roman walked in, carrying a cup of hot tea. He had stripped off his suit jacket, looking relaxed and immensely happy as he set the cup beside her computer.
“How is the launch going?” Roman asked, leaning against the edge of her desk and looking at the blueprints.
“The first sanctuary facility in Boston opens next month,” Nora reported, her face glowing with pride. “We have secured thirty private apartments, a full legal defense team, and a specialized accounting program to help these women rebuild their financial independence.”
Roman looked down at her with an expression of pure, unadulterated devotion. “You are changing the world, Eleanor.”
“We are changing it together,” Nora corrected softly, taking his hand. “Without your strength, none of this would be possible.”
Roman pulled her up from her chair, wrapping his arms around her waist, drawing her close against his chest. He rested his chin on her head, listening to the gentle beat of her heart.
“I spoke with Marcus this morning,” Roman murmured into her dark hair. “The perimeter security upgrades are complete. But honestly, my love... I don't think anyone would dare approach this house now.”
Nora chuckled softly, wrapping her arms around his neck. “Why is that?”
“Because the security guards told me they’re more afraid of disappointing you than they are of disappointing me,” Roman joked smoothly.
May you like
Nora lifted her head, looking into his flint-gray eyes that had become her entire world.
“Good,” she whispered playfully. “They should be.”
