Chapter 14 - Confronting her own profound maternal regrets over how pride and stubbornness drove her beloved son Ethan away from this massive estate years ago already today.
Back in the quiet sanctuary of the master library, Eleanor sat alone in her leather armchair staring into the dying fireplace embers.
The house was finally silent, freed from the frantic chaos of Julian's conspiracies and the media storm outside the gates.
She held a framed black-and-white photograph of a young Ethan smiling on the very same terrace where the gala took place.
Tears welled up in her aging eyes, spilling down her cheeks as the full weight of her past mistakes crashed over her soul.
She had prioritized corporate dominance and social standing above her own flesh and blood, driving her favorite son into exile.
If she had listened, if she had compromised just once, Ethan might still be walking these halls beside her today.
Clara walked into the library quietly, carrying a porcelain cup of warm tea and placing it gently on the table beside Eleanor.
"He never stopped talking about you, you know," Clara said softly, breaking the heavy silence of the room.
Eleanor looked up, her breath catching as she met Clara's understanding, compassionate gaze across the mahogany desk.
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"He always said beneath all that ice, his mother had a heart that knew how to forgive," Clara added gently.
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