Unexpected Return

The heavy door creaked open, and Nanny bent at a perfect right angle, her voice respectful. "Mr. Blackwood has returned."

Ethan Blackwood, his striking features set in a mask of focus, navigated the plush carpet with determined strides toward the opulent sofa where Lily sat. His piercing blue eyes held an unreadable glimmer that sent shivers down her spine. With a swift movement that caught her off guard, he lifted her into his arms and draped her over his broad shoulder like a feather pillow.

"Come, Lily," Ethan declared, his voice resonating with an intriguing blend of anticipation and authority. "I'm taking you somewhere special."

Lily wriggled in discomfort against the firm hold of his tailored suit. Her heart pounded as she tried to decipher his intentions. What is he plotting now? she pondered, curiosity and apprehension intertwining like vines within her.