Chapter 10 - The Prince and the Princess
Six months later.
The sun shone brightly over the private courtyard of the Monroe Country Estate. Rose bushes bloomed in full vibrant colors, and soft classical music drifted from the veranda.
Ten-year-old Mila stood near a mirror on the patio, wearing a beautiful pink lace dress. She was looking at her reflection, opening her mouth wide, and smiling radiant, perfect, straight white teeth. She dropped her hands from her face and giggled with absolute confidence—a beautiful, bright smile that lit up the entire garden.
"Look, Matteo! Look!" Mila shouted, running across the grass toward Matteo, who was standing by the fountain dressed in a handsome grey suit.
Matteo knelt down, catching the little girl in his arms and lifting her high into the air. "Look at that beautiful smile!" he cheered, making her laugh hysterically. "Fit for a true princess!"
"Thank you, Matteo!" Mila beamed, hugging his neck tightly.
From the veranda, Ava walked out wearing a stunning white silk dress that caught the soft breeze. Her hair cascaded down her back in loose curls, and her cheeks were flushed with deep happiness.
Matteo set Mila down, allowing the girl to run off and play with Mrs. Higgins near the flower beds.
He walked slowly toward Ava, his eyes locked onto hers with intense, unwavering affection.
"You look breathtaking, my love," Matteo murmured, wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her close against his chest.
Ava rested her hands on his shoulders, looking up into the dark eyes that had once terrified her, but now represented her absolute safe haven.
"Do you remember the night we met?" Ava asked, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. "At the gala?"
Matteo chuckled, a warm, rich sound. "How could I forget? A beautiful waitress stole a kiss from me and turned my entire world upside down."
"It cost ten thousand dollars," Ava teased gently.
Matteo leaned down, his lips brushing against hers, sending a wave of electric warmth through her entire body.
"It was the best investment I ever made," Matteo whispered softly against her mouth.
May you like
He pressed his lips to hers in a deep, passionate, and slow kiss—not out of desperation or fear like the first time in that crowded ballroom, but full of pure, everlasting love.
The dangerous mafia boss had found his heart, the brave sister had saved her family, and together under the warm, unbroken sunlight, they stepped into a lifetime of peace, love, and absolute freedom.
