Chapter 7 - The Master of the Estate
Luca walked out of the laundry room, holding Nora in one arm while carrying the termination notice in his hand. Emily followed weakly behind, holding onto the wall for support.
Harland tried to adjust his tie, attempting to summon his usual polished, authoritative demeanor, but his hands were visible shaking.
"Mr. Moretti," Harland stammered, stepping forward. "I didn't expect you back until six. I was simply managing household efficiency. Mrs. Carter has been falling behind on her duties for three days due to illness, and—"
"Quiet," Luca said. The single word cut through the hallway like a steel blade.
Harland stopped instantly, swallowing hard.
"You threatened a three-year-old child and her sick mother while I was out of the house?" Luca asked, his voice low, measured, and infinitely dangerous.
May you like
"It is estate protocol, sir!" Harland pleaded, backing up a step. "Staff who cannot complete their shifts must be replaced to maintain standard operations!"
Luca stepped closer, his broad frame towering over the manager. "My estate protocols do not include freezing a child's hands in laundry water, Harland. You answer to me, not the other way around."
