Chapter 4 - Stepping across the wet marble threshold into the opulent foyer while heavy rain batters the American flag flying proudly on the historic family estate porch.
Arthur guided Evelyn gently toward the grand entrance, keeping his broad frame positioned protectively between her and the balcony.
Near the massive oak double doors, the US flag fluttered subtly on its polished brass pole, soaked by the relentless autumn gale.
The heavy mahogany doors swung open automatically, welcoming them back into the opulent warmth of the mansion's marble foyer.
Evelyn's bare feet left faint, watery prints across the pristine white marble floor as she stepped inside the sprawling hallway.
Arthur shed his wet charcoal grey suit jacket, handing it immediately to a startled butler who materialized from the shadows.
"Get Miss Evelyn to her suite, draw a warm bath, and have Dr. Vance report to her chambers immediately," Arthur ordered coldly.
"Yes, Mr. Sterling. Right away," the butler stammered, rushing forward to guide the trembling young woman toward the grand staircase.
Evelyn paused on the bottom step, looking back at her father with wide, pleading eyes filled with lingering trauma.
"Don't worry, sweetheart. Nobody will ever hurt you in this house again," Arthur promised with quiet, lethal assurance.
May you like
She nodded weakly, turning away to ascend the stairs while Arthur pivoted sharply to face the dimly lit drawing room.
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