Chapter 10 - The Unexpected EndingOn a crisp autumn evening, exactly one year after Dominic followed Emma through the pouring rain, the Vale estate hosted its largest gala yet.
Hundreds of politicians, business tycoons, and community activists packed the grand ballroom. The imported marble floors reflected the dazzling crystal chandeliers, and the air was filled with classical music and the murmur of polite conversation.
Standing near the tall French doors overlooking Lake Michigan, Dominic held a crystal flute of champagne in one hand. His other arm was wrapped securely around Emma’s waist, pulling her close against him.
"You know," Emma murmured, looking up at him with a playful glint in her dark eyes, "when I first started working here, I thought you were just another cold-hearted monster hiding behind stone walls."
Dominic chuckled, pressing a soft kiss to the top of her head. "And what do you think now, Mrs. Vale?"
Emma smiled, resting her head against his shoulder as the distant fireworks lit up the Chicago skyline in brilliant bursts of gold and crimson.
May you like
"Now?" she whispered softly. "I think you're still a monster, Dominic. But you're my monster."
Dominic laughed—a rich, deep sound that echoed through the ballroom, proving once and for all that the most feared man in the city had finally been completely, irrevocably conquered by the woman with the leather cash pouch and the unyielding heart.
