Chapter 18
The reception was a flawless, elegant affair. The bright, natural light was replaced by the warm, golden glow of the crystal chandeliers. Soren and Elodie danced in the center of the room, surrounded by heavily armed, fiercely loyal men who would die to protect them.
"Are you happy, Mrs. Blackwell?" Soren murmured, holding her securely against his broad chest.
"I have never been happier," Elodie smiled, resting her head against him. "But I have to admit, I never expected to marry a Mafia boss."
"I am only a boss to the world," Soren corrected softly, kissing her temple. "To you, I am simply a man who will burn the world to ashes if anyone tries to take you from me."
The evening concluded with Alice falling asleep in a plush chair, exhausted by the excitement. Soren carried his daughter effortlessly up the grand staircase, Elodie walking proudly by his side, gently carrying a sleeping Theo.
May you like
They tucked the children into bed, the nursery bathed in soft, comforting light. Soren watched his new wife gently stroke Alice's hair, feeling a profound, unshakeable peace settle over his soul.
He had stared into the abyss, uncovered horrific betrayals, and executed thousands to secure his throne. But looking at the three people he loved most, he realized that true power was not in the fear he commanded, but in the family he had fiercely protected. The monsters were permanently locked outside the gates, the empire was invincible, and his bloodline was finally, eternally safe.
