Chapter 21

The profound peace of the Hayes estate was an elegant illusion maintained by constant, invisible vigilance. Five years had passed since Alexander secured his throne, and the syndicate operated with a flawless, legitimate efficiency. The bright, cinematic sunlight poured through the towering windows of Anna’s private office, illuminating the pristine white marble floors. She sat behind a heavy mahogany desk, her fair, rosy skin glowing with health and absolute authority. She was no longer a frightened housemaid; she was the undisputed queen of the empire, currently reviewing the security logistics for Emily’s upcoming equestrian exhibition.

The heavy oak doors clicked open, and Alexander stepped into the room. He remained as movie-star handsome as ever, his broad, powerful shoulders filling out a tailored dark charcoal suit. His thick, slightly wavy hair was swept back, and his cold, perceptive eyes softened instantly as they locked onto his wife.

“The perimeter is secure, Anna,” Alexander murmured, his deep, low voice vibrating in the quiet room. “However, Marcus has flagged an anomaly in the western logistics grid. A ghost from my past.”

Alexander looked up, his expressive brows drawing together. He walked slowly toward her, his tattooed hands resting on the edge of her desk. “My estranged cousin, Victor,” Alexander stated, his voice a freezing void. “He has returned from exile. Do you believe a man who was banished under pain of death returns simply to offer his regards?” Alexander inquired softly. Anna’s jaw tightened, the fierce, protective maternal instinct igniting in her chest. The shadows were creeping back into their light.

>>Chapter 22