Chapter 6 - A New Reign
One Year Later
The sun shone brightly over the private terrace of the Perry estate.
The gardens were blooming with white roses, and the sound of classical music drifted through the air. Today, the estate wasn't host to mafia meetings or clandestine deals; it was host to a celebration.
Nevie stood near the marble balustrade wearing an exquisite champagne-colored silk gown. She looked radiant, her skin glowing, her dark eyes filled with peace and confidence.
Behind her, Leandro stepped out onto the terrace. He wore a crisp white shirt with the sleeves rolled up, looking relaxed and strikingly handsome. He walked up behind Nevie, wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her back against his broad chest.
"You're thinking again," Leandro whispered, resting his chin on her shoulder, kissing the soft skin of her neck.
"I’m just remembering," Nevie smiled, leaning back into his warmth. "A year ago today, I was standing in a wet uniform at Laora, worrying about an electric bill."
"And now you own half of Laora’s parent company," Leandro reminded her with a soft chuckle. "And you run my entire legitimate logistics division."
"With a thirty percent profit increase this quarter," Nevie added proudly, turning in his arms to face him.
Over the past year, Nevie and Leandro had reshaped the Perry organization. With Nevie’s sharp business mind and Leandro’s strategic discipline, they had completely transitioned the family’s operations into legal, highly lucrative global ventures.
Stella had been sent to a prestigious boarding school in Switzerland to learn humility and management, while Gerard had been promoted to regional director of Laora with a handsome salary raise.
"You gave me a life I never thought I could have, Leandro," Nevie said softly, resting her hand against his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart.
"You gave me a life, period," Leandro corrected gently. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box.
Nevie’s breath hitched.
Leandro opened the box, revealing a flawless, brilliant-cut diamond ring that caught the sunlight like a star.
He looked down into her eyes, his expression filled with raw, unfiltered devotion. "Nevie Brown. You stood up to my sister, you challenged my authority, and you saved me from my own darkness. Will you make me the happiest man alive and marry me?"
Tears of pure joy welled in Nevie’s eyes. She laughed softly, wrapping her arms around his neck.
"Yes," Nevie whispered. "Yes, Leandro. Absolutely yes."
May you like
Leandro slipped the ring onto her finger, pulling her close and kissing her deeply under the warm afternoon sun.
The quiet waitress who had once been treated like breathing furniture had found her voice—and together with the king of the city, she had built a reign of strength, loyalty, and everlasting love.
