Chapter 15 - Vows of Silk and Iron—The Boss's Forever Queen
One year later.
The private terrace of Blackwood Manor was covered in thousands of white roses, cascading ivy, and twinkling fairy lights overlooking the Hudson River at sunset.
The ceremony was private—only our closest, trusted circle was present. Mateo stood proudly as Gabriel’s best man, and Elena wiped happy tears from her eyes in the front row.
I walked down the petal-strewn aisle wearing a custom ivory silk gown that flowed around my body like water. There were no rigid constraints, no forced expectations, and no masks.
At the end of the aisle stood Gabriel.
He looked impossibly handsome in his classic black tuxedo, his eyes fixed on me with an intensity that took my breath away. When I reached him, he took both of my hands in his, his fingers warm, strong, and steady.
The officiant spoke the ancient words, but Gabriel’s vows came straight from his soul.
“Shantel,” Gabriel spoke, his deep voice carrying across the quiet mountain terrace. “I spent my entire life building walls to keep the world out. But you walked through those walls without fear. You healed my scars, restored my heart, and gave me a reason to live beyond the fight. With this ring, I give you my name, my empire, my protection, and my eternal devotion. What is mine is yours, forever.”
I placed the matching platinum band on his finger, looking directly into his dark, loving eyes.
“Gabriel,” I said, my voice clear and full of joy. “You took me from the shadows of betrayal and showed me what true strength and love look like. You gave me safety without stealing my freedom. I choose you today, tomorrow, and for every lifetime that follows. My heart is yours, completely.”
“By the power vested in me,” the officiant declared with a broad smile, “I now pronounce you husband and wife. Gabriel, you may kiss your bride.”
Gabriel didn't wait. He pulled me into his arms, dipping me slightly as his lips met mine in a fierce, breathless, and deeply romantic kiss that sealed our souls together forever.
The small crowd erupted into cheers and applause as Gabriel lifted me back up, holding me tight against his chest.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in brilliant hues of gold, crimson, and violet, I looked at the man holding me.
I was no longer the frightened girl dragged out of a Wall Street gala. I was no longer collateral in a coward’s debt.
I was Shantel Costa.
May you like
The beloved, untouchable queen of the underworld’s most powerful king.
THE END
