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Chapter 89
~Zara’s POV~
The tension wrapped around me tightly, and when the car finally arrived at Snow’s mansion, I let out a breath I didn’t know I was holding.
The memories of my family’s house—my father’s exhaustion, my mother’s frustration, Elias’s agitation—all replayed like an unwelcome montage, amplifying the weight in my chest.
The driver came around to open my door, and I stepped out, smoothing the creases on my dress before grabbing my bag. Snow’s mansion stood imposing yet comforting before me, and a strange sense of relief washed over me.
The familiar grounds, the polished floors, even the slightly too-cool air all hinted at stability, at control—two things I’d sorely missed in the past few days.
One of Snow’s staff greeted me with a polite bow. "Madam Zara," he said, taking my bag. "Welcome back."
"Hello, good evening," I replied, managing a faint smile. He nodded, leading me through the grand hallway as I followed quietly, breathing in the calm that only seemed to exist here.
He set my things in my room and left me alone, closing the door softly behind him.
For a brief moment, I just stood there, taking in my surroundings—the familiar plush furnishings, the faint scent of lavender from the linen, and the comforting memory of Snow’s guarded, grumpy expressions.
And Storm’s laughter as he ran through the halls, a source of lightness I hadn’t expected to miss.
It was odd but comforting. Being here felt like the closest thing to peace I’d felt in weeks.
A loud rumbling from my stomach reminded me that I hadn’t eaten breakfast. Following my nose, I found my way to the kitchen, where two maids were cooking up a feast.
"Mrs. Zara," one of them said, startled, stepping back from the gas with wide eyes.
"Madam," the second girl acknowledged.
Both ladies bowed their heads and quickly looked away. Watching them fold their hands in front and shudder a little made me shake her head.
I couldn’t help but chuckle at the way they straightened, clearly caught off guard. "Relax, I won’t bite, you know."
"M-m-ma?" the first girl stuttered.
And the second girl lifted her head, and as soon as she locked eyes with me, she averted her gaze.
I shook my head as a gentle smile formed on my lips. "Please, don’t let me interrupt. I’m just here to enjoy whatever that delicious aroma is," I said, nodding toward the simmering pots, the warmth of the kitchen seeping into me.
They both exchanged a quick, bashful glance, cheeks pink. "We’ll bring it up to your room," one of them offered. "We’ll prepare a tray for you."
"That would be wonderful, thank you." I smiled, watching them for a moment as they moved swiftly, a calm efficiency in every step.
This place ran so seamlessly, everyone somehow in sync, almost like Snow’s guarded exterior had seeped into every corner of his home, creating a serene atmosphere.
Elias: I’m sorry about Mom. I know she can be... intense. Please don’t let it weigh on you.
Zara: Thank you, Elias. I’ll figure this out—I promise. Try to get some rest too.
Elias: Will do. Just... don’t feel like you have to carry this alone.
Ella: Hey Zara! Just checking in. How are you feeling? I know you’ve had a lot on your plate lately. Hope the trip wasn’t too exhausting.
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