Chapter 14 - REBUILDING THE FOUNDATION
Six months later, the Chicago skyline looked brighter than ever.
Laura bistro had undergone a complete, multimillion-dollar renovation funded entirely by Roman’s holding company.
David Kesler was long gone, replaced by a passionate culinary team that respected its staff.
And the owner?
On a crisp autumn morning, I stood inside the newly remodeled dining room, wearing an elegant manager’s blazer, reviewing the reservation list for the evening grand reopening.
The restaurant had been officially renamed Megan’s Bistro.
My son Leo ran past the tables, laughing as he chased a toy airplane, completely healthy and thriving in a prestigious private academy.
The front door chimed.
Roman walked in, wearing his familiar charcoal suit, looking as striking and powerful as ever.
He walked straight past the hostess stand and stopped in front of my desk.
“How is my favorite restaurateur doing?” Roman asked softly, resting his hands on the polished wood.
“We’re fully booked for opening night,” I smiled, looking up into his warm gray eyes.
“Every table reserved by city leaders, critics, and friends.”
“And you?” Roman asked, stepping closer.
“Are you happy?”
I reached across the desk, placing my hand over his strong, calloused fingers.
“I have a wonderful son, a restaurant of my own, and a man who stood in front of a bullet to protect me.”
“I think I’m more than happy, Roman.”
He pulled a small velvet box from his breast pocket and opened it on the desk.
Inside rested a stunning diamond ring that caught the morning sunlight streaming through the windows.
“Megan,” Roman whispered, his voice thick with emotion.
“Will you stay in my fortress forever?”
Tears welled up in my eyes, but this time, they were tears of pure joy.
May you like
“Yes,” I whispered.
“Yes, I will.”
