Chapter 8 - The Price of Absolute Power
Back in the Manhattan penthouse, the storm had cleared, leaving behind a crisp, starlit night that illuminated the entire skyline in silver and gold.
Sky stood by the floor-to-ceiling windows of the master suite, wearing a simple silk robe, watching the distant lights of the city. The door behind her opened softly, and the familiar, grounding presence of Roman filled the room.
He walked up behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist, pulling her back against his chest. He rested his chin on her shoulder, breathing in the scent of her hair.
"It's over," Roman murmured quietly. "Dante is on a container ship heading south. Your father’s creditors have been paid off. The Sterling name is legally severed from all debts."
Sky turned slowly in his embrace, looking up into his dark, intense eyes. There was no fear left in her expression—only a profound, hard-won peace.
"And what happens to me now, Roman?" she asked softly. "Am I still just an asset on your ledger?"
Roman’s gaze softened, the dangerous edge melting away into something fierce, tender, and absolute. He reached up, cupping her face with his hand, his thumb gently tracing her lips.
"You were never an asset, Sky," Roman confessed, his voice thick with emotion. "You were the only weakness I ever allowed myself to have. And I intend to spend the rest of my life making sure no one ever touches you."
May you like
Sky smiled—a small, radiant, genuine smile that transformed her face—and leaned up to press her lips softly against his.
In a world built on blood, fear, and ruthless ambition, they had found their own terrifying version of forever.
