Chapter 7 - A New Dawn in Manhattan
The autumn air had grown crisp by the time I reached my eighth month, painting the trees of Central Park in brilliant shades of amber, copper, and gold.
My apartment was filled with soft pastel yellows, brand-new wooden toys, and a crib carved by an elderly artisan from my father’s hometown in Maine—a man who remembered holding me when I was just a baby in my mother's arms.
The past year felt like a lifetime ago. The humiliation in the kitchen, the live-broadcast betrayal, the cold boardroom showdowns—they were all just stepping stones on the path to absolute sovereignty.
I no longer looked back at what Roman had tried to take from me, because everything that mattered was already right here, growing stronger with every single heartbeat inside me.
My phone rang while I was organizing the nursery bookshelves.
It was Dr. Vance, my obstetrician, calling to confirm my final prenatal checkup for the following morning.
“Everything looks completely pristine, Elise,” her warm voice came through the speaker. “You’re strong, healthy, and ready for whatever comes next.”
“Thank you, Doctor,” I smiled, resting my hand against my belly as a tiny, unmistakable kick pushed back against my palm. “We’re more than ready.”
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After hanging up, I walked over to the floor-to-ceiling window and watched the golden lights of the Manhattan skyline blink to life against the evening sky.
I had survived the fire, dismantled the cage, and claimed the entire kingdom.
