Chapter 15 - The Empty StaircaseMonths passed.
The mansion became quiet again.
Elena's pregnancy progressed normally.
One evening, she stood alone at the top of the marble staircase.
She looked down.
Once, those stairs had represented terror.
Now they represented survival.
Julian came up behind her.
"You okay?"
She smiled.
"I think so."
He wrapped his arms around her.
Their baby moved.
Elena laughed softly.
"Did you feel that?"
Julian placed his hand against her stomach.
Another kick.
His face transformed.
The ruthless businessman disappeared.
There was only a father.
"We're going to be okay," he whispered.
Elena leaned against him.
"Yes."
For the first time, the staircase no longer frightened her.
May you like
She descended slowly.
One step at a time.
Related Stories
Chapter 16 - A New FoundationJulian made a decision that shocked Wall Street.
Chapter 17 - The BirthOn a cold spring morning, Elena went into labor.
Chapter 18 - The Gala of ReckoningThree months later, the annual Sterling-Vance charity gala returned to the mansion.
Chapter 19 - The LetterLate that night, after the guests had gone, Elena returned to the library.
Chapter 20 - Beyond the ChandelierA year later, the Sterling-Vance estate was filled with sunlight.
