The goodbye at Mom's was a tapestry of soft touches and lingering glances. A kiss on Mom's forehead, a promise in her eyes. A hug for Sarah, a whispered tease for Emma. Then, I was in the AMG One, the engine's growl a solitary sound in the twilight, carrying me back to the heart of my empire.
At 8 p.m. on the dot, the heavy gates of the estate groaned open, recognizing their master. I guided the car into its sanctum, the purr dying into a satisfied silence. Stepping out, the night air was cool, but the light spilling from the main house was warm, alive with laughter and the clink of cutlery.
I found them in the grand dining room, a scene of vibrant chaos. Soo-Jin was placing the final dish on the long table, her movements precise. But my entrance stilled the room for a heartbeat.
