Chapter 20 - THE NEXT CHAPTER|
Six months later.
Spring had arrived in Chicago, painting the city in vibrant shades of green and gold.
Inside the quiet sanctuary of the Pilsen parish church, a simple, elegant wedding ceremony was taking place. There were no press, no rival captains, and no political maneuvering—only twenty close friends, including Leo and a clean, sober Tommy standing in a neat suit.
Beatrice stood at the altar wearing a stunning, simple ivory silk dress that fell in clean lines to the floor, holding a small bouquet of white roses.
Standing across from her was Arthur Costello, wearing a crisp dark tuxedo, his gray eyes shining with an absolute, unshakeable devotion as he slid a thick platinum band onto her left ring finger.
Beside it sat a breathtaking emerald-cut diamond ring—a permanent reminder of the dress that had started it all.
The priest finished the blessing: “I now pronounce you husband and wife.”
Arthur didn't wait for the formal instruction. He stepped forward, taking Beatrice into his arms, lifting her slightly off the stone floor as he kissed her deeply under the warm stained-glass light.
The small crowd cheered warmly.
As they walked down the aisle together, hand in hand, Beatrice looked up at her husband with a radiant, beautiful smile.
“Mr. Costello,” she whispered as they stepped out into the bright spring sunshine. “What’s our next transaction?”
Arthur pulled her close against his side, his arm heavy and protective around her waist as the sleek black Maybach waited at the curb.
May you like
“A lifetime, Mrs. Costello,” Arthur murmured, kissing her forehead. “No audit required.”
Far down the avenue, the silver rain of Chicago had finally stopped, leaving behind a clear, brilliant horizon that belonged entirely to them.
