Chapter 13 - A Crown Restored|
One month later.
The Grand Aurelia ballroom—the very place where the city's elite had once gathered to celebrate Vincent's power—was filled once again.
However, the nature of the gathering had completely changed.
Over three hundred prominent business leaders, community organizers, and local shop owners attended the official launch of the Costa Community Foundation. The organization was designed to fund local small businesses, provide housing grants, and eliminate protection rackets across the city.
Vincent stood on the grand stage, wearing a tailored navy suit. Beside him stood Tessa, wearing an exquisite dark green silk gown, her dark hair styled elegantly, looking radiant and majestic.
The crowd erupted into standing applause as Vincent stepped up to the microphone.
"For twenty years," Vincent spoke, his deep voice echoing through the silent hall, "I believed power was measured by how many people feared my name. I was wrong."
He looked beside him at Tessa, his dark eyes filled with warmth and devotion.
"Power is measured by how many people you can protect," Vincent continued. "And today, this city belongs to the people who build it."
The room cheered thunderously.
In the front row, Leo—Tessa's brother—stood clapping proudly, his hands still dusted faintly with flour from his thriving bakery.
Vincent turned to Tessa, pulling a small velvet box from his jacket pocket.
Tessa caught her breath, her hand flying to her mouth.
Vincent dropped to one knee on the grand stage, right in front of three hundred guests.
"Tessa," Vincent said, his voice thick with genuine emotion. "You washed my face when I was nothing. You took a bullet for me when I was helpless. Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?"
Tears of pure joy spilled down Tessa's cheeks.
May you like
"Yes, Vincent," Tessa whispered, her voice carrying through the quiet microphone. "Yes!"
Vincent slipped a stunning, simple emerald ring onto her finger, standing up to pull her into a deep, loving embrace as the ballroom exploded into joy.
