Bound by scars: More than just a caretaker

le of the stretched-out garden behind the Sterling estate, its flowers and properly trimmed hedges and healthy blush a crisp contrast to the t

ething about him-an air of authority masked by an impenetrable wall of detachment-that made her feel uneasy. Yet, despite his blankness, she couldn't

e garden, much like her life, was in great need of pruning and rebirth. She drown

horizon. The view was stunning, a reminder of why she had chosen Seabreeze as her refuge. But the landscape

her smile. But, the contempt and remorse that plagued her persisted. Was she enough for him

on the gravel surface. As she turned around, she saw Lucas appro

y," he remarked, his voi

url from her face. "I wanted to get a h

ession unreadable. "You've done well. But there's more to this estate tha

as though he were testing her. Eloise met his gaze,

f his lips, but it didn't reach his eyes. "

Eloise heaved a sigh of relief, her shoulders visibly relaxing as the tension

unch. The sleek countertops shone as they reflected the warm light pouring through the casement wind

The peaceful moment was disturbed by two voices yelling from the front hall. El

hallway, half lurking behind the doorway. Her eyes w

k in a way that gave him a sinister edge, with a slight resemblance to Lucas. His distinct features and

ng," the man said, his voice low

slightly. And Nathan, I've already informed you that the a

alk away? You owe me, Lucas. Or have you forgotten

watched the back-and-forth. Lucas's grey eyes filled with something dark and

''I haven't forgotten, nevertheless, I won't

g he was being watched. Eloise ducked back quickly, her heart pounding.

arrying an edge of warning. The front door banged

iend of Lucas's, and whatever history they shared was far from cordial. But what kind of deal

, and she was starting to understand the concerns of the locals. But one thing was clear: Lucas Sterling's life w

d, Eloise couldn't shake the feeling that she had arrived at

wasn't entirel