Giovanni steps back slightly, his eyes dark and intense as he looks me over, as if he’s seeing me for the first time.
“You’ve proven yourself tonight,Micetta,” he says, his voice a low growl. “You’ve shown that you’re worthy of being one of us—one of the ruthless royals who rule Willow Bridge. I’ve never been more fucking proud of you.”
“Thank you,” I whisper, my voice barely audible, but Gio hears it. He always hears me. We stand there for a moment, just holding each other, and I feel like I could take on the world.
“Let’s get out of here,” he says after a moment, his voice softbut firm. “You’ve done what you needed to do. Now it’s time to leave this behind.”
I nod, feeling a sense of closure wash over me as I glance back at Leo. He’s still slumped in the chair, dead by my hand, but I feel nothing for him. No pity, no regret. Just a cold, detached sense of justice. He got what he deserved, and I’m done with him.
Gio takes my hand, leading me out of the basement, and as we walk up the stairs, I feel a sense of power, of strength, that I haven’t felt in a long time. I did it. I took back my power, and I’m not afraid anymore.
When we reach the top of the stairs, the cool night air hits my face, and I take a deep breath, feeling a sense of freedom that I haven’t felt in months. I’m free. I’m finally free.
Giovanni pulls me close, his arm wrapping around my shoulders, and I lean into him, feeling the warmth of his body against mine.
“My queen,” he murmurs, his voice filled with pride. “You fucking did it.”
I smile, a real, genuine smile, and nod. “Yeah,” I say, my voice strong and confident. “I did.”
We walk out into the night, leaving the darkness of the basement behind, and I know that I’m not the same person I was when I walked in there. I’m stronger now. More powerful.
I’m a queen, and I’m ready to rule.
