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“The families are coming around. Many are falling in line.”
“And the rest?” I ask, my voice tinged with concern.
“Some have not yet agreed, but they will. I have no doubt. The city is calming down, and both sides are seeing how good this is for everyone. Families are safe and once more off limits. The way it should have always been,” Aldo explains, his tone filled with conviction.
“What about the men who are resisting?” Rose asks, her voice laced with determination.
“They will see in time. Give it time. They will either fall in line or face the consequences. It’s as simple as that. You have many more supporters now,” Aldo assures us.
“It could take a lot longer than a few months. Blind hate has fueled some of them for decades. It takes time to break through that, but we will get there,” I chime in, feeling a mix of hope and caution. “But this is a fantastic start,” I add, a sense of optimism resonating in my words.
“So, where do we go from here?” I asked, my voice filled with determination. Aldo, a trusted advisor, replied, his words carrying a sense of assurance, “We will continue on. We have already made progress. You will need to keep going with the meetings and show the men you are not backing down.”
As I listened to his words, I could hear the faint rustling of papers and the murmur of voices in the background. The room smelled of fresh coffee, invigorating and comforting. I knew this journey wouldn’t be easy, especially as a woman in a position of power. The men, unused to working with women, needed time to adjust. I could feel the weight of their skepticism in the air, but I was determined to prove them wrong.
“They need time, and they need to see that you are not a pushover,” Aldo continued, his voice steady. “They will see the fierce queen you are. I have no doubts.” His words resonated with me, filling me with a sense of pride and determination.
In that moment, I couldn’t help but reflect on who I was - a fierce, brave, and resilient queen. I was everything a king could ask for, and more. I ruled with both my head and my heart, with strength, compassion, and unwavering loyalty. This was the essence of my reign, and I was determined to make it known.
I turned to Aldo, seeking his thoughts on the matter. “Aldo, what are your thoughts?” I asked, my voice steady and confident. He nodded in agreement, his eyes reflecting the same determination I felt. “I agree. The men need time. And you will need to continue showing them how strong and capable you are. We can’t rush this process. They will either fall in line or die.”
His words hit me like a cold gust of wind, a stark reminder of the challenges ahead. But I knew he was right. There would always be dissenting voices, just as even Demetrius had faced resistance. This was simply another hurdle to overcome, and I was prepared to do whatever it took.
“You are right,” I replied, my voice unwavering. “We need to give them time and show them we will not back down.” The room seemed to grow still, the air heavy with anticipation. We were on the cusp of something great, and I knew that together, we would prevail.
Chapter 54
Rose
“Welcomeback,”Lenasayswith a grin, her voice filled with warmth. I look up from my desk, glimpsing her beaming face.
I can see that knowing look in her eyes, and it instantly puts a smile on my face. “It was the best trip ever,” I reply, my voice tinged with excitement. I can still feel the warmth of the sun on my skin and the gentle breeze in my hair. “It was perfect. I have never felt so loved and cherished.”
Lena’s grin widens, and her eyes sparkle with joy. “Well, duh. Vlad loves you,” she says playfully. The scent of freshly brewed coffee wafts through the air, filling the room with its rich aroma. “I’m so happy for you both. Especially after everything you have been through.” Lena’s expression suddenly changes, and she looks down, her fingers fidgeting nervously.
The tension in her body is palpable. “What is it, Lena? Is everything okay? Did something happen while we were gone?” I ask, concern lacing my voice.
“Yes. I mean no. Everything is fine. Nothing happened,” she stammers, her words rushed. The sound of my heartbeat fills my ears, a steady rhythm of anticipation.
“Lena, please tell me,” I implore, my voice soft yet firm. The faint scent of lavender hangs in the air, a calming presence amidst the uncertainty.
“No. There is nothing to tell,” she replies, her voice barely above a whisper.
“Lena, tell me now or I will kick your ass,” I tease, trying to lighten the mood.
“You wouldn’t do that.”
“Wanna bet?” I challenge, my voice filled with playful determination. She stands before me, fidgeting and silent. The tension in the room thickens, a heaviness settling around us. “Lena, come on. Tell me what’s wrong,” I urge, my voice filled with genuine concern.
I give her a stern look, and she huffs, her breath escaping in a frustrated puff. The tension in the room is palpable. “It’s my family. I’m scared that they will come for me now that Victor is no longer in charge.” Her voice quivers with fear, and I can see the worry etched deep into her furrowed brow.
“I promise they won’t touch you,” I reassure her, my voice firm and resolute. The air hangs heavy with uncertainty. “You are not alone. Aldo and the rest of us have you. You are safe. No one will touch you.”
“How can you be so sure?” she whispers, her voice barely audible. Her eyes glisten with unshed tears, reflecting the dim light in the room. The smell of anxiety permeates the air, mixing with the faint scent of coffee lingering from earlier.
“I won’t allow anyone to hurt you,” I declare, my voice filled with determination. The sound of alarms suddenly pierces through the silence, jarring our senses. The blaring noise reverberates against the walls, adding to the chaos that unfolds before us.
“Shit. That’s not good,” she mutters under her breath, my heart pounding in my chest.
