Chapter 73

Harrison stepped back into the Falcon estate, her breath catching as she recognized the figure in the living room. Vincent Blackwood. The man who haunted her nightmares.

A decade ago, Victoria had shipped her off to the countryside - straight into Vincent's so-called care. Now here he sat, perched on Eleanor's antique sofa like he belonged.

"Harrison thrived in the countryside thanks to you," Eleanor gushed, pouring tea. "You raised such a refined young woman. Now she's the lady of Falcon Enterprises."

Vincent's single working eye darted across the gilded room, lingering too long on the Ming vases. His massive frame seemed to swallow the delicate furniture whole. The same man known for breaking his wife's ribs during drunken rages now played the humble farmer.

"You're too kind, Mrs. Eleanor. I hope my girl hasn't embarrassed you since marrying into such a fine family."

"Embarrassed us? Harrison's been perfect."

Vincent's lips twisted into that familiar, predatory smile. "Oh yes, my Harrison was always... perfect."

Harrison's nails bit into her palms. Bile rose in her throat.

"Mrs. Harrison, you've returned." Reginald's voice cut through the tension.

Vincent's head snapped up. Ten years had transformed the scrawny girl into this elegant woman. His gaze crawled over her body like filthy hands.

"Harrison." He stood, voice dripping false warmth. "Ten years I've waited. Not a day passed without me thinking of you."

Eleanor beamed. "Your foster father traveled so far to see you, dear."

Harrison's blood turned to ice. Every childhood terror came rushing back. Her limbs locked in place.

Then - warmth. A strong arm encircled her shoulders. Calloused fingers pressed gently into her skin.

"Why are you standing here?" Nathaniel's deep voice vibrated against her back.

She looked up into those piercing eyes. For a moment, the world blurred. She swayed slightly.

Nathaniel shrugged off his jacket, handing it to a maid. His thumb stroked her collarbone. "You're freezing."

His heat seeped through her blouse, thawing the fear. She unconsciously leaned into his solid frame.

"Perhaps I dressed too lightly," she murmured.

Eleanor gestured proudly. "Nathaniel, this is Harrison's foster father. He came all the way from Wintervale."

Nathaniel's gaze turned arctic as it landed on Vincent.

Vincent's jaw clenched as he took in Nathaniel's commanding presence. That worthless brat had landed herself a king. Rage burned behind his smile.