Chapter 14 The Lake House

• The lake house sat nestled among whispering pines and sleepy oaks, the quiet waters of the lake glinting silver beneath the late summer moon. It was far enough from the city to feel like another world—far from prying eyes, flashing cameras, and the sharp teeth of scandal. Here, the air was cooler, kissed with the faint scent of moss and woodsmoke. Crickets chirped, and the occasional splash of fish broke the mirrored stillness of the lake. The night was calm, like the world had collectively exhaled and forgotten how to breathe.
• Brandy leaned against the backseat window as Konstantine drove them up the gravel driveway. She hadn’t spoken much on the ride, still reeling from the events at the estate. The tension with the Bratva council. Delilah’s humiliation. Her own sobs muffled in Chardonnay’s arms.
• Now, the scent of pine and the hush of midnight promised temporary sanctuary.