Michael stood in the middle of the newly furnished living room, admiring the results of a full day's work.
The stone walls had been scrubbed and polished, the wooden floors swept clean, and new furniture—a few comfortable chairs, a sturdy table, and a cozy rug—had been placed to give the house warmth and character.
Even the kitchen had been outfitted with more efficient tools, and a well-built hearth now provided warmth, which would be especially comforting on cold nights.
The evening sun filtered in through the tall windows, casting a golden glow over the room.
Lia, having finished his last bit of organizing, stood in the doorway of one of the guest rooms, his sharp gaze taking in the progress. "The repairs are holding up well, my lord. Just a few final touches left."
Michael nodded, his hand brushing against the cool surface of the wooden table. He could still hear the sound of tools and the chatter from the workers he had hired earlier that day.