The atmosphere inside the mansion grew heavy and tense over the next few days. The peace of old days was completely gone, replaced by pervasive fear. Security had been doubled, patrolling around the mansion day and night. Servants moved silently, careful not to cause trouble, as if a single misstep could bring disaster.
Ella did exactly as Lucian told her, staying indoors, rarely stepping out of the living room or bedroom. She was terrified of the garden outside, where the mysterious watcher might be hiding.
Lucian became busier than ever. He spent most of his time locked in the study, talking quietly with Ethan, planning things she could not hear. Yet he never neglected her. He never missed a meal with her, and he always came to comfort her before bed, never making her feel lonely or forgotten. Still, Ella could see the tiredness in his expression. The pressure from secrets and danger weighed on him little by little, and it broke her heart.
She wanted to help him, to lighten his load, but she knew she could do nothing. She knew nothing about his world, his enemies, or his secrets. All she could do was stay by his side, be his quiet and steady support, and keep trusting him—even as fear threatened to drown her.
On the fifth day of increased security, an unexpected visitor arrived at the mansion. Someone Ella never thought she would see again.
Ella was sitting on the sofa reading when the door suddenly opened. Her father walked in, looking tired and worn, his clothes messy. Ella stood up abruptly, the book slipping from her lap, shock written all over her face.
"Dad?" she whispered, her voice trembling. She had not seen him since the wedding, the day he signed her away to Lucian to save his company. She had once blamed him, hated him, for abandoning her without hesitation. But seeing him so worn and defeated, all her hatred melted away, leaving only worry.
Her father looked at her, his eyes filled with guilt and regret. He walked slowly toward her, his steps unsteady. "Ella… I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry. I had no choice. The company was going bankrupt. There was no other way. I never meant to hurt you."
Tears welled up in Ella's eyes. She could only nod, unable to speak. Despite everything, despite him giving her away for the company, she still missed him. Without her mother, her father was her only family—until this marriage tore them apart.
Before Ella could say anything, Lucian walked into the living room. Security had informed him of the visitor the moment they arrived. He stood beside Ella, his hand gently resting on her shoulder, silently shielding her. He looked at Ella's father, his expression calm and unreadable.
"Mr. Carter," Lucian said, his tone polite but distant. "What brings you here?"
Her father looked at Lucian, awe and fear in his eyes. The whole city knew the power of the Lucian family, even if everyone thought he was blind. "I came to see my daughter. And to thank you. Thanks to you, my company is saved. I owe you everything. I just… I wanted to say sorry to Ella, and make sure she's being treated well here."
Lucian's hand tightened slightly on Ella's shoulder, wordlessly showing his protection over her. "Ella is my wife. She is respected and cared for here. You have my word. But I must warn you—this mansion is not safe right now. Leave quickly, and don't tell anyone you came here. It's for my safety, and for yours and Ella's."
Her father's face turned pale. He understood the seriousness of the situation and nodded quickly. He turned to Ella, taking her hand gently.
"I have to go now," he said softly. "But I promise I'll come to see you soon. Ella, take care of yourself. And… Lucian. Thank you for taking care of her."
Ella nodded, tears streaming down her cheeks. Her father squeezed her hand once more, then turned and left the mansion. The door closed softly behind him.
She stood frozen for a long time, sobbing quietly. Then Lucian gently pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly. Ella buried her face in his chest, feeling his warmth and safety. He held her firmly, stroking her back gently, whispering comforting words in her ear.
"It's all right," he murmured. "He's safe. You're safe. I won't let anyone separate you from the people you care about."
Ella held him tightly, gratitude filling her heart. At that moment, all her doubts and fears melted away. She knew that no matter what dangers lay ahead, no matter how many secrets he hid, Lucian would protect her. He was her guardian, her safe harbor. And without realizing it, she had fallen deeply in love with him. She just wasn't ready to admit the full weight of that love.