The library of the Croft Estate was turned into a war room. Lawyers in dark suits argued over speakerphones, their voices rising above the wail of sirens outside. Dante Ricci’s private security team was circling the perimeter, and the press was swarming the gates.
“We have a containment problem,” the lead attorney announced, slamming a folder shut. “Mr. Thorne and Ms. Vance cannot leave the premises. Ricci has an injunction ready to serve the moment they step onto public property. He’ll take custody of her as a corporate asset.”
William sat in a leather chair, holding an ice pack to his jaw. He looked at Marcus, who stood defensively by the window.
“She stays,” William said, his voice thick.
“She stays because she has to, not because she wants to,” Marcus shot back, his eyes cold. He was the “Protector,” fighting a losing battle against a husband who was also a stranger.
“The Arrangement is this,” the lawyer continued, outlining the terms of the “Impossible House”. “William and Sophie will reside in the Main House. Mr. Thorne and Ms. Vance will remain in the Guest House until the Ricci lawsuit is settled. No contact between the parties without legal counsel present.”
Sophie stood by the door, still wearing her wedding dress, now wrinkled and stained with champagne. “And what about us?” she asked softly, looking at William. “What about our marriage?”
William looked up, his eyes haunted. “We are safe, Sophie. That’s what matters.” But the division in his heart was already etched on his face.