Chapter 21
The absolute peace of the Ashbourne estate was an elegant illusion maintained by constant, invisible vigilance. Five years had passed since Kieran secured his throne, and the syndicate operated with a flawless, legitimate efficiency. The bright, cinematic sunlight poured through the towering windows of Annie’s private office, illuminating the pristine white marble floors. She sat behind a heavy mahogany desk, her fair, rosy skin glowing with health and profound authority. She was no longer a housemaid; she was the undisputed queen of the empire, currently reviewing the guest list for her massive philanthropic foundation's inaugural gala.
The heavy oak doors clicked open, and Kieran stepped into the room. He remained as movie-star handsome as ever, his broad shoulders filling out a tailored dark charcoal suit. His thick, slightly wavy hair was swept back, and his cold, perceptive eyes softened instantly as they locked onto his wife.
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"The perimeter is secure, Annie," Kieran murmured, his deep, low voice vibrating in the quiet room. "However, Silas has flagged a late addition to your VIP list. A Russian investor named Viktor Markov."
Kieran looked up, his expressive brows drawing together. "He offered a ten-million-dollar donation." Kieran walked slowly toward her, his tattooed hands resting on the edge of her desk. "Do you believe a man like Markov offers ten million dollars without expecting to buy the entire house?"
