Chapter 4 - A Spark in the Fortress
Back at the estate, Maren’s health improved rapidly under the constant care of the staff and the luxurious environment.
For the first time in her life, she didn't have to worry about rent, medical bills, or late-night bus rides in the freezing rain. But more than the luxury, it was Jaxson’s quiet, intense presence that began to capture her mind.
Every evening, despite managing an empire, Jaxson returned to the estate early. He would sit beside her in the library, listening patiently as she read her favorite novels or spoke about her dreams of opening her own small bakery one day.
Underneath his terrifying reputation as a ruthless mafia boss, Maren discovered a man of profound intellect, deep loyalty, and a guarded heart that had been hardened by years of betrayal.
One evening, as a warm rain fell over the estate gardens, Maren walked down to the kitchen to make tea. Jaxson was standing near the marble counter, clad in a dark velvet robe, holding a document.
"You should be resting," Jaxson said, though a soft smile touched the corners of his lips as she entered.
"I'm feeling much better, Jaxson," Maren replied, walking over to stand beside him. "The doctor said my ribs are almost completely healed."
Jaxson set his document down and turned to face her. His eyes swept over her warm, healthy glow, her dark hair falling softly over her shoulders, and the simple cotton dress she wore.
"I brought you something," Jaxson said softly, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a small, heavy golden key.
He placed it in her palm.
"What is this?" Maren asked, looking at the key in confusion.
"That is the key to the property on 5th Street in the Arts District," Jaxson explained gently. "The deed is in your name. The medical debts you owed have been paid in full, and the building is set up for you to build your bakery."
Maren’s breath hitched in her throat. Tears welled up in her brown eyes as she looked from the key to the dark, handsome face of the man standing before her.
"Jaxson... I can't accept this," she whispered, her voice trembling. "This is too much. Why would you do all of this for me?"
May you like
Jaxson stepped closer, closing the distance between them until his chest brushed hers. He raised his hand, his long fingers gently cupping her chin and lifting her face.
"Because the night I found you on that floor," Jaxson murmured, his voice thick with raw emotion, "I realized that all the power and money in this city meant nothing if I couldn't protect something truly good. You brought warmth into a life that was dead, Maren."
