Chapter 18 - Unbreakable Vows
Julian slowly walked around the desk until he stood directly in front of Chloe.
The anger in his eyes had completely melted away, replaced by deep reverent awe.
"You risked your life... you entered this den of vipers alone... just to fulfill a promise to your sister," Julian said softly.
Chloe looked down at her hands.
"I'm sorry I lied about my identity, Julian," she whispered.
"I was terrified that if Eleanor or Victoria knew who I was, they would eliminate me before I could find the truth."
Julian reached out and gently lifted her chin with his hand.
"You don't ever have to apologize to me, Chloe," Julian said softly, his voice full of warmth.
"You saved my daughter."
"You honored Clara's memory."
"And you brought light back into this dark house."
At that moment, the door of the study pushed open.
Lily stood in the doorway, wearing her silver locket around her neck and holding her sketchpad.
"Daddy? Chloe? Why are you crying?" Lily asked innocently.
Julian smiled through his tears and knelt down on the rug, opening his arms wide.
"Come here, sweetie," Julian called out.
Lily ran into his arms, and Julian pulled Chloe down beside them, wrapping his arms around both of them tightly.
"Is Aunt Chloe going to stay with us forever?" Lily asked, looking up with her big bright eyes.
Chloe looked at Julian, her heart fluttering.
May you like
"Yes, Lily," Julian answered, looking directly into Chloe's eyes.
"Aunt Chloe is never leaving us again."
