Chapter 470

Aurora felt unsettled, but she kept it to herself.

Since he was away, she figured she might as well enjoy a couple of nights of peace. At least she’d get some quiet time.

That night, she lay on the large bed, staring at the ceiling.

For the first time, she noticed just how big the master bedroom felt.

It was so big, as if the space around her was filled with nothing but silence – so vast and heavy it almost threatened to swallow her whole.

She didn’t even bother turning off the wall lights.

It hit her then – how terrifying habits could be.

Somewhere along the way, without even realizing it, she had grown used to Lucas’ presence.

He was like air, seeping into her world in places she couldn’t see, gradually surrounding her.

Aurora turned her head to glance at the other side of the bed.

When Lucas was there, it had felt a bit cramped.

But now, the bed seemed big enough to fit three of her.

Gone was the familiar back she used to lean on, the warmth she’d grown fond of.

For the first time, sleep didn’t come easily.

The next morning, she got up early.

When she came out, she saw a woman in the kitchen – someone she didn’t recognize.

The woman quickly came over and greeted her warmly. “Good morning, ma’am. I’m Mary, Mr. Carter asked me to come by and cook for you. I’ve just made some millet and pumpkin soup, and I baked bread too. Please try them.”

Aurora’s eyes lit up.

She hadn’t expected Lucas to be this thoughtful – he’d remembered everything she liked.

The woman he hired seemed competent and reliable too. Everything was prepared with care.

One bite into the bun, and Aurora’s eyes widened in delight.

It was surprisingly good.

“Mary, your cooking is amazing!”

She didn’t hold back her praise.

Despite being a workaholic, Aurora had always had a soft spot for simple, comforting food.

She was, through and through, a foodie.

Seeing her enjoy the meal so much, Mary beamed. “As long as you enjoy it, ma’am. That makes it all worth it for me!”

Breakfast was a pleasant affair for both Aurora and Mary.

By the time Aurora headed out for work, her mood was lifted.

She sent Lucas a quick message: “The food was amazing – your housekeeper’s a gem!”

Without waiting for a reply, she tucked her phone into her coat pocket and drove off toward Walton Corporation.

Fortline.

Lucas stood tall in a black trench coat over a blood-red shirt.

His lips were the color of wine, his whole presence evoking the image of a vampire count straight out of another century.

Beside him stood Desmond. “Mr. Carter, these are the ones who backed John.

“Ever since they found out we had him taken, they’ve been stirring, and now it seems like they’re planning something big. We thought – why not let them think they’re winning.”

Lucas let out a low “Mm.”

His fingers shifted slightly, still holding a cigarette.

Desmond instantly understood.

“Got it. We’ll keep it clean.”

Lucas flicked the nearly burned-out cigarette to the ground, then crushed it under his boot.

With his tall, imposing frame, he stepped into the light pouring in from the open door.

Behind him came the muffled cries and desperate whimpers of those being restrained – mouths covered, bodies struggling. From that doorway on, it felt like a sharp line had been drawn – everything on Lucas’ side belonged to another world entirely.

He paused at the threshold, turning his head slightly.

The bridge of his nose cast a long shadow across his face.

“Keep it quiet.”

With that, he walked out without once looking back.