Chapter 23 - A Night of Celebration
To celebrate the nationwide launch of the foundation’s sanctuaries, the family decided to host an intimate, private dinner at the estate—strictly closed to high-society socialites, corporate opportunists, and media outlets. This gathering was just for us.
The grand dining room was lit by dozens of flickering candles, casting a warm, amber glow over the long oak table laden with exquisite food and rare wines. There were no formal suits or rigid corporate protocols—just laughter, shared memories, and the unbreakable warmth of true family.
Matteo raised his crystal glass high into the air, catching the candlelight. "To Elena," he announced grinning widely. "Who taught us that the most dangerous weapon in the room isn't a gun or a billion-dollar bank account—it’s an unforgiving mind and an unyielding spirit."
"Hear, hear," Luca echoed, clinking his glass against Matteo's.
Gabriel adjusted his glasses, smiling warmly. "And to a future where we never have to dismantle another corrupt empire again—though if we do, Nico’s team is already on standby."
Nico laughed, tossing a crumpled napkin at Gabriel. "My team is retired, thank you very much. We only deal in luxury investments and family vacations now."
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I looked around the table at my five brothers, my heart swelling with an emotion so deep and pure it rendered me momentarily speechless. They had stood like an impenetrable wall of stone when my world collapsed. They had given me their absolute loyalty, their fierce protection, and their unconditional love.
"Thank you," I said softly, raising my own glass as the room quieted down. "For never letting me walk alone in the dark. We built this kingdom together, and there is nowhere else I would rather be."
