Chapter 278: Closing
Chapter 278 – Roman POV
Burying myself in work is the best solution. Not the healthiest, perhaps, but effective. It’s the only thing that keeps me from thinking too much.
Thorne, of course, has dumped most of the administrative responsibilities on me. Vice Archon—that’s my title now. Sounds fancy. What it means is I spend my days managing departments, drafting policies, and trying to make sure Alden Island doesn’t collapse under the weight of its own rapid growth.
Leona has taken over security and the knight patrols. She’s terrifyingly competent, which helps. Brian’s in charge of construction—no surprise there. The man treats buildings like children.
And Raul... well. That bald idiot has been skipping meetings again. Something about expanding his marriage circle. I’ve heard rumors he already has a wife and is scouting for two more. He’s lazy as hell, but I’ll find something to occupy him. Merchant regulation, maybe.
It’s late before I even glance out the window. Dusk has turned to night. The lamps outside flicker to life, casting long golden shadows across the stone.
I have a place in the town, a spacious, perfectly furnished home. But I prefer staying here—on the estate, in Thorne and Noelle’s vast household. There’s more than enough space. And maybe... maybe it makes me feel less alone.
I lean back in the chair, exhaling deeply, and close my eyes.
I hear the door open and close, the scent that fills the room is herbs and something sweet. Felix.
I open my eyes and look at the door and he stands there, uncertain, the dark circles under his eyes more defined.
He must have lost some weight. I almost stand and fuss over him, but I don’t. I’m not going to do that. Not anymore.