Chapter 20 - The Reign
A year later, the Chicago skyline glittered under a crisp autumn night.
Inside the grand ballroom of the newly renovated Blackwood Plaza Hotel, the elite of the city gathered for a massive charity gala—a legitimate one, funding pediatric healthcare and urban development.
Harper stood near the grand staircase, wearing a stunning black gown, sipping sparkling cider. She watched fondly as Damian lifted a laughing Leo onto his shoulders. Leo, completely healthy and thriving with the best medical care money could buy, adored Damian, treating the fearsome kingpin like a giant jungle gym.
Damian caught Harper’s eye across the room. He set Leo down, sending the boy off to the dessert table, and walked over to his wife.
“You look bored,” Damian teased, wrapping an arm around her waist.
“I was just thinking about a diner on Elm Street,” Harper smiled, resting her hand on his chest.
“I had it demolished and turned into a community center,” Damian reminded her, kissing her temple. “But I kept the espresso machine.”
“Good. Your coffee always tasted like battery acid.”
They looked out over the ballroom. Politicians, business moguls, and former rivals all mingled, carefully respecting the absolute authority of the couple standing on the stairs. The Blackwood empire was now impenetrable, shielded by legitimate wealth and the fierce, protective love of the woman who helped run it.
“Are you happy, Harper?” Damian asked softly, looking down at her.
May you like
Harper looked at the diamond on her finger, at her healthy brother stuffing his face with cake, and finally, at the dangerous, devoted man who loved her fiercely.
“My black tea is still four dollars,” Harper smiled, leaning up to kiss him. “But my life with you is absolutely priceless.”
