Chapter 16
One year later.
The sprawling estate on the North Shore was completely unrecognizable. The armed guards were gone, replaced by standard private security. The dark, brooding curtains had been pulled down, letting sunlight flood the mansion.
Bella sat on a picnic blanket on the back lawn, watching the gentle waves of Lake Michigan. Leo, a chubby, energetic one-year-old with his mother’s eyes and his father’s stubborn chin, was busy trying to eat a dandelion.
“Don't eat the weeds, buddy,” a deep voice chuckled.
Lucas walked across the grass, wearing a casual linen shirt and slacks, looking completely at peace. He scooped Leo up, tossing the giggling boy into the air before pressing a kiss to his chubby cheek.
Lucas sat down next to Bella, wrapping a strong arm around her waist and pulling her close.
“How was the board meeting?” Bella asked, resting her head on his shoulder.
“Boring. Legal. Highly profitable,” Lucas grinned. “Drake Logistics just secured the largest legitimate freight contract in the Midwest. Your accounting skills saved us millions in taxes this quarter, Mrs. Drake.”
Bella smiled, twisting the massive, flawless diamond ring on her left hand.
“I still can't believe it,” Bella murmured. “Two years ago, I walked into your hotel room with twelve towels and a funeral bill.”
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“And you left with my soul,” Lucas replied softly.
He leaned in, kissing her deeply, right there in the sunlight. The empire of blood was gone. From its ashes, a dynasty of love had finally been built.
