Chapter 10 - Crown of the Empire
The private celebration was small—just close friends, loyal syndicate captains, and the domestic staff who had watched their master transform from a cold, solitary king into a man completely devoted to his queen.
Inside the grand ballroom of the Italian villa, a string quartet played a soft, romantic waltz.
Salvatore held Clara close in the center of the polished marble floor. She moved with effortless grace, her curves fitting perfectly against his frame, completely unbothered by the eyes of the world, completely secure in the love of a man who treated her like royalty.
"Are you happy, Clara?" Salvatore asked quietly, looking down into her shining green eyes.
"I'm more than happy, Sal," she whispered, resting her head against his shoulder. "I'm free."
Salvatore pulled her just a fraction tighter, spinning her gracefully under the warm glow of the crystal chandelier. He knew the underworld was full of dangers, and his enemies would always be watching from the shadows. But as long as Clara stood beside him—radiant, powerful, and deeply loved—his empire was unbreakable.
May you like
They had started their journey in the ashes of a cruel, shallow betrayal, but they had built something magnificent from the rubble. A throne forged in absolute loyalty, fierce protection, and an unbreakable, consuming passion.
And as the music swelled through the night air, Clara Moretti knew with absolute certainty: she would never have to shrink herself again.
