The Waitress Wrote “Gunman Behind You” on the Mafia Boss’s Check—By Sunrise, She Was Wearing His Diamond Ring and Ruling His Empire

The cool ocean breeze blew across the private balcony, rustling the emerald silk of Chloe’s gown. Dominic stood beside her, leaning against the stone balustrade, watching the dark waters below.

Chloe looked at him, her heart beating with an overwhelming mixture of awe and desire.

“You threatened to kill him in front of the mayor,” she whispered, half-laughing, half-shocked.

“I don't make empty threats, Chloe,” Dominic said, turning to face her.

He reached out, his fingers sliding into the nape of her neck, gently pulling her closer. Chloe didn't resist. She placed her hands on his chest, feeling the steady, powerful rhythm of his heartbeat beneath the custom tuxedo.

“Why are you doing all of this for me?” she asked, looking deep into his dark eyes. “You could have paid me off and sent me to another country. Why keep me by your side?”

Dominic’s expression softened into something vulnerable, something he had never shown another living soul.

“Because the moment I saw you walk into that line of fire to save me, my world stopped spinning around power,” Dominic said, his thumb brushing her lower lip. “For ten years, I thought my only purpose was to rule this city through fear. But you... you made me feel human again, Chloe. I don't want an empire if you aren't standing in it with me.”

He slowly leaned down, and this time, there were no interruptions.

His lips met hers in a kiss that was both fierce and devastatingly tender. Chloe parted her lips with a soft sigh, wrapping her arms around his neck as Dominic pulled her tight against his body. The kiss tasted of vintage wine, salt air, and pure, intoxicating possession.