Chapter 20 - The Unbroken Horizon|
Six months later.
The summer sun bathed the fifty-acre Lake Forest estate in brilliant, golden light.
The rose gardens had been completely restored, blooming in vibrant shades of crimson, pink, and white. The iron gates stood open, welcoming a new era of absolute peace.
Mia sat on a soft blanket spread out across the lush green lawn, wearing a simple white sundress, holding six-month-old Alexander in her lap. The baby was giggling happily, reaching his tiny chubby hands toward a golden butterfly floating through the air.
Matthew walked out from the conservatory, wearing a relaxed linen shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows, carrying two glasses of fresh iced tea.
He dropped down onto the blanket beside his wife and son, setting the glasses aside, pulling Mia into his side while little Alexander babbled happily, grabbing onto his father’s pinky finger.
"How is the city?" Mia asked softly, leaning her head against his broad shoulder.
"Quiet," Matthew smiled, kissing the top of her head. "The New York families signed the non-aggression pact yesterday. The Kensingtons have completed their community service, and Chicago is entirely peaceful."
Mia looked down at her son, then up at her husband—the feared mafia boss who had bought a building to solve her rent, ruined an empire to defend her honor, and built a sanctuary to protect their bloodline.
She raised her hand, resting her knuckles against his cheek, the massive diamond wedding band on her left hand catching the warm summer light.
"I love you, Matthew," she whispered.
Matthew wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her and Alexander close against his broad chest under the bright blue horizon.
May you like
"I loved you when you were hiding," Matthew whispered against her lips. "And I will love you for the rest of my life."
Far out on the quiet waters of Lake Michigan, the sun shone bright and warm, illuminating a future that no force on earth could ever tear apart again.
