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The bulletproof Maybach cut through the freezing Chicago drizzle, the rhythmic slap of the windshield wipers the only sound inside the leather-lined cabin / Chapter 9 / 19

Chapter 10 - The Empire Built on Choice

One year later, the Costa estate was no longer a fortress of fear. The walls were still guarded, the security cameras still hummed, but the air inside was filled with life.

In the sunlit courtyard, twelve-year-old Leo was laughing as he chased Dante through the garden, while Mia and Chloe sat on the porch sketching designs with Nora. There were no nannies, no tears, no screaming matches. Just a chaotic, fiercely loyal, unbreakable family.

Arthur walked out onto the patio, carrying two cups of black coffee. He handed one to Nora, who was leaning against the stone railing, the morning sun catching the diamond band sparkling on her ring finger.

"The boys from the New York syndicate are asking for a meeting next Tuesday," Arthur said quietly, resting his chin on her shoulder as he wrapped his arms around her waist.

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"Tell them we're busy," Nora smiled, leaning back against him. "Leo has a soccer game, and Chloe needs help with her art project."

Arthur chuckled, pressing a kiss to her neck. "Done."

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