Chapter 20 - The Empire of TwoThe world belongs to those who are willing to walk through the fire to claim it.
Six months after the showdown with the Commission, Chicago was reborn. But it was no longer just the Russo territory. It was the capital of the entire American Syndicate.
Victor didn't step down. He ascended. He was voted the head of the National Commission, ruling over every family from New York to Los Angeles.
And I sat right beside him.
The grand ballroom of our newly built estate—ten times more fortified and beautiful than the original—was filled with the most powerful people in the world. Politicians, governors, and syndicate bosses mingled under the crystal chandeliers, whispering our names with a mixture of reverence and fear.
Tommy was standing near the buffet, looking sharp in a tailored suit, laughing with a pretty girl from his private high school. He was healthy, strong, and completely safe.
I stood on the grand balcony overlooking the city, holding a glass of champagne. I wore a backless crimson gown that trailed along the marble floor, a string of flawless diamonds resting against my collarbone.
Strong arms wrapped around my waist from behind. The familiar scent of cedar, expensive bourbon, and danger enveloped me.
"You look bored, my Queen," Victor murmured, pressing a soft kiss to my neck.
"Just reflecting," I smiled, leaning back into his chest. "Mrs. Gable retired to Florida with a very generous pension. The clinic is rebuilt. And Don Carmine just sent us a three-million-dollar wedding gift."
"He's terrified of you," Victor chuckled, his deep voice vibrating against my spine. "They all are."
"Good." I turned around in his arms, looking up into the dark, bottomless eyes of the most dangerous man on earth. "Let them be terrified."
Victor’s gaze softened, stripping away the ruthless mafia boss to reveal the man who loved me with a fierce, unending devotion. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box—not black, but deep royal blue.
He opened it. Inside was a breathtaking, custom-cut diamond ring, flanked by two blood-red rubies.
"We never got to finish our wedding," Victor whispered, slipping the ring onto my finger. It fit perfectly. "I promised you a lifetime sentence, Elena. Are you ready to rule the world?"
I looked at the ring, then at the man who had pulled me from the abyss, paid my debts, and turned a desperate maid into an untouchable Queen.
I wrapped my arms around his neck, pulling his lips down to mine.
"I already am, Victor," I whispered against his mouth. "I already am."
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THE END.
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