Chapter 4 - The Empire Shared
Six Months Later
The sprawling gardens of the Russo estate were bathed in the golden light of the setting sun. I sat on the stone terrace, wrapped in a luxurious cashmere blanket, resting a hand on my heavily pregnant stomach.
I wasn't the broken, insecure woman Derek had left behind. I was the undisputed queen of the Russo empire.
I still worked, but on my own terms. I ran the philanthropic wing of Dominic's legitimate enterprises, funneling millions of dollars into women's shelters and children's hospitals across Chicago. I was protected, cherished, and entirely untouchable.
Footsteps echoed softly against the stone.
Dominic walked onto the terrace, having just returned from a meeting downtown. He wore a flawless, tailored charcoal suit, looking every inch the lethal, powerful boss that ruled the city. But the moment his eyes found me, the ice completely melted.
He crossed the terrace and dropped to one knee beside my chair.
He didn't ask about my day immediately. He pressed his face gently against my stomach, his large, dangerous hands resting protectively on my sides. A sudden, sharp kick against his cheek made him pull back, a rare, breathtaking smile breaking across his face.
"He’s strong today," Dominic murmured, looking up at me with absolute devotion.
"He takes after his father," I smiled, reaching out to run my fingers through his dark hair.
Dominic leaned up and captured my lips in a slow, consuming kiss. It was a kiss that promised violence to anyone who threatened us, and absolute worship to me.
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"I destroyed a cartel this afternoon," Dominic whispered against my lips. "But sitting here, looking at you... I have never felt more powerful."
I rested my head against his shoulder as we watched the sunset over our city. Derek had thought breaking my heart would be the end of my story. He had no idea it was simply the prologue to becoming the most protected, loved, and feared woman in Chicago.
