Chapter 10 - A New EmpireOne year later.
The grand ballroom of the Moretti Plaza was packed once again with three hundred of the city’s elite. But this time, the atmosphere was entirely different. There was no casual cruelty, no arrogant socialites mocking the vulnerable. Everyone walked with caution, fully aware of who ruled the city.
At the center of the room stood a stunning, custom-tailored white evening gown, glittering under the crystal chandeliers. I stood before the mirror in the private bridal suite, taking a deep breath as I adjusted the diamond necklace resting against my collarbone.
The door opened softly, and Lorenzo walked in. He looked breathtaking in his custom tuxedo, his eyes softening instantly when he saw me.
"You take my breath away," he whispered, wrapping his arms around my waist from behind and resting his chin on my shoulder, looking at our reflection in the mirror.
"Not bad for a former waitress, right?" I teased softly, turning around in his embrace.
"You were never 'just' a waitress," Lorenzo said seriously, pressing a tender kiss to my forehead. "You were always a queen. You just needed the right kingdom."
Outside the double doors, the string quartet began to play the processional march. Hand in hand, Lorenzo and I walked out toward the grand staircase.
May you like
As we descended into the ballroom, every head turned. But there was no fear in their eyes—only deep, absolute respect. In the front row, smiling warmly with tears in her eyes, was Lorenzo’s mother, wearing a gorgeous silk dress and waving up at us.
I smiled back, squeezing Lorenzo’s hand tightly as we stepped onto the floor together. I had no money, no influence, and no idea what I was walking into when I spilled that glass of wine a year ago. But looking at the man by my side, I knew I had won the ultimate game.
