Sebastian’s reaction was laughter, sharp and mocking, as though I had just made the world’s most absurd joke.
“Regret?” he barked. “The only thing I’ll regret is ever meeting a faithless heiress like you!”
He extended his hand toward Celeste. The two exchanged a triumphant smile and strode together to the center of the ballroom.
It was only then that I noticed—their matching ceremonial attire, a designer set of dark tailored suits and a flowing gown of deep crimson. He raised their joined hands high, his voice loud and commanding over the gathered family heads.
“Tomorrow marks the most crucial day in the history of our territory—our ascension! None of this would have been possible without the effort of every capo and soldier here. Together, we shall continue to rise to greatness!”
The room erupted in cheers, the walls shaking with applause and the clinking of glasses, the air electric with loyalty and ambition.