The seasons had changed again, and it had been over a year since Lila first stepped through the gates of the Vance Estate. So much had happened since then—fear, battles, love, and growth. Now, the estate didn’t look or feel like the same place. The heavy, dark atmosphere was gone. The gates were no longer locked and barred from the inside; they stood open, welcoming guests, workers, and friends. The gardens were full of flowers that Lila had planted herself, and the house was always filled with voices, laughter, and activity.
Today was a very special day. It was the day of the first major gathering of all the people who worked for or partnered with the Vance family. In the past, these kinds of meetings were tense, secretive, and held in dark rooms where only men were allowed. Today, it wa
