Chapter 17 - The Reception
The reception at the Rossi estate was a lavish affair. Champagne flowed like waterfalls, and a live jazz band played late into the night.
Matteo sat at the head table, holding Camilla’s hand, watching his empire celebrate. Dante stood by the exits, ever watchful, but even he had a faint smile on his stoic face.
Leo and his mother, Maria, were seated at a prominent table, treated not as servants, but as honored guests. Leo was busy showing off his gold pocket watch to anyone who would look.
"You gave him your grandfather's watch?" Camilla asked, following Matteo's gaze.
"He earned it," Matteo said simply. "He saw something wrong, and he spoke up, even when he was terrified. We need more men like that in our family."
Camilla squeezed his hand. "You're a good man, Matteo Rossi. Despite what the newspapers say."
"I'm a ruthless man," Matteo corrected gently. "But I am exclusively yours."
Julian walked over, holding a glass of champagne. He clinked it against Matteo’s glass.
May you like
"To the Rossi family," Julian toasted. "May your enemies run, and your family grow."
Matteo drank to that. He looked at Camilla, imagining a future with children running through the halls of the estate. Children who would never have to fear the shadows, because their father owned them.
