Page 78 of My Empire


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The conflicting emotions surge within me, especially gratitude for Dominic’s concern and resentment for being left in the dark about his cancer, about his plan… I can understand wanting to go out in a blaze of glory, but he robbed me of a chance to say goodbye… or even to tell him one more time that I love him.

Silhouette watches me, her expression a blend of sympathy and understanding. “He cared deeply for you, Vanessa. His final act was one of profound sacrifice.”

I can’t look away from the letter. “He always put others before himself. Even in the end, he was thinking of me.” After a moment, I fold the note and tuck it into my pocket, and then I have to wipe away tears.

Silhouette watches me, her eyes reflecting the turmoil in my soul. “I’m sorry, Vanessa. Dominic was only trying to protect you.”

My fists are clenched so tightly that my hands ache. “I appreciate that, but I can’t help feeling betrayed. He kept this from me, and now…”

She places a hand on my shoulder. “He believed he was doing what was necessary.”

The truth in her words doesn’t erase the hurt, and tears roll down my face.

“If ever there was someone who made me want to get out of this life and settle down and be ordinary…”

I gape at her. “You…”

“I love Dominic, yes,” she says simply.

“Did he…”

“I never had the courage to find out,” she says sadly.

“We’ll both find a way forward with him,” I say, tapping a fist to my chest.

She nods sadly. “He wanted you to live, to embrace the life he couldn’t. What will you do now?”

“I’ll honor his memory. I’ll continue the path we started together. But first, I need to deal with Damian and Marlena.”

Silhouette nods, understanding the weight of the decisions ahead. Dominic’s legacy lives on, guiding me even in his absence. As Alex works diligently to uncover any betrayals, I prepare to face the challenges that lie ahead, armed with thewisdom imparted by a man who walked beside me, even in the shadows.

Even from beyond the grave.

CHAPTER 35

Back at Fortune’s Oasis, I pace as Dominic’s letter echoes in my mind, a poignant reminder of his sacrifice and the trust he placed in me. Alex’s recent intel has unveiled the hidden truths, and now, armed with knowledge, I must make a choice.

As the swirling chaos of the criminal underworld threatens to consume me, I’ve deciphered the web of alliances and deceit. Damian and Marlena stand before me, both with their own agendas, both potential threats to the delicate balance I’ve sought to maintain.

The air in the room hangs heavy with anticipation as I gather my lovers in the dimly lit confines of my private sanctuary. Each one wears a mask of curiosity, concern, and, perhaps, a hint of trepidation. It’s an unspoken truth that we stand on the precipice of a decision that could alter the course of our lives.

I gather my lovers in my office and share Dominic’s letter with them. I hold onto Dominic’s words, a guiding light in the darkness. Together, we prepare for the inevitable confrontation, knowing that the shadows conceal not only threats but also the potential for a new beginning.

“Listen, everyone,” I say, my voice steady, commanding attention. “We’ve danced on the edge of this game for far too long. It’s time to make a choice, to cut loose the ties that threaten us. Damian and Marlena, they are both dangerous in their own ways, but one poses a greater threat.”

The room falls into a heavy silence, punctuated only by the distant sounds of the city beyond. I meet the eyes of each lover, gauging their reactions. Xavier, with his strategic mind, looks thoughtful, perhaps already piecing together the puzzle. Alex, my Head of Security, remains vigilant, his gaze fixed on me, searching for assurance.

“I’ve made a decision,” I continue, and the tension in the room tightens. “We need to eliminate the greater threat, ensure the survival of our empire, and protect each other. Dominic’s sacrifice won’t be in vain.”

Jesse’s jaw tightens, his domineering nature simmering beneath the surface. Dylan, the ever-watchful bodyguard, nods solemnly, understanding the gravity of the situation. Each one of them has been a pillar of support, and now, we face the crucial task of dismantling a threat that looms large over our carefully constructed world.

As the echoes of Dominic’s note linger in the room, I feel a renewed determination. The shadows may be dark, but within them lies the opportunity for rebirth. The choice has been made, and the impending storm awaits. We move forward, guided by loyalty, strategy, and the memory of the one who believed in us until the end.

The weight of my decision hangs heavy in the air as I reveal the name that will soon be synonymous with the end of a formidable adversary.

“It’s Marlena,” I say, the words resonating with finality.

Silence ensues, broken only by the muffled sounds of the city outside. Each of my lovers absorbs the gravity of my choice, theirexpressions shifting in a delicate dance between understanding and uncertainty.

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