Chapter 2 - The Morning After The Fake Marriage Declaration
The morning sun washed over the sprawling limestone terraces of the Costa estate in Port Meridian.
Golden light illuminated the massive entryway where dozens of luxury gift baskets piled high against the mahogany walls.
Chloe stood barefoot on the marble floor, staring in absolute disbelief at the mountains of imported champagne and gold-wrapped cheeses.
Mr. Hart adjusted his silver lapel pin with practiced calm as he walked past the towering floral arrangements.
“The courier from the Boston docks just dropped off three more crates of vintage truffles, Mrs. Costa,” the butler reported smoothly.
Chloe winced at the title, rubbing her temples as the reality of Luciano’s impulsive declaration fully set in.
“Please tell me you didn’t sign for any of this contraband masquerading as wedding gifts,” Chloe groaned softly.
“It would be a grave diplomatic insult to reject gifts from the New England syndicate leaders,” Mr. Hart replied deadpan.
May you like
She let out a long sigh, realizing her quiet life as the estate’s head housekeeper was gone forever.
The quiet hum of footsteps drew her attention toward the grand staircase curving down from the upper residential wing.
