Chapter 16 - Packing modest belongings into a worn leather suitcase while preparing to slip away quietly into the rainy city streets before the heavy hammer falls.
Before leaving the hotel, Ethan insisted on stopping by the staff quarters to help Clara gather her few personal belongings.
The tiny, windowless room smelled of detergent and bleach, a stark contrast to the opulence of the grand gala upstairs.
Clara knelt beside an old, worn leather suitcase, carefully folding her spare maid uniforms and placing them inside.
"You don't need any of this anymore, Clara," Ethan said gently, crouching down to place his hand over hers.
"It's all I've had of my own for the last two years, Ethan; let me keep the memories," she smiled faintly.
Ethan nodded understandingly, zipping the suitcase shut and lifting it effortlessly with one hand.
Outside the tiny window, a steady autumn rain began to pelt against the concrete alleyway, washing away the city grime.
It felt like a cleansing rain, washing away the remnants of a nightmare and preparing the earth for a fresh, powerful beginning.
Leo stirred slightly in Ethan's arms, muttering a sleepy word before burying his face deeper against his father's shoulder.
May you like
The small family of three turned off the harsh fluorescent light of the staff room and walked out into the corridor.
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