Chapter 14 - THE MAN WHO LEARNED TO LOVE WITHOUT CONTROL
Roman's life changed too.
He began separating his legitimate businesses from criminal operations.
He cooperated with investigations where required.
Accepted consequences.
And gradually stepped away from the violent world that had defined him.
The process wasn't easy.
Former allies resented him.
Some business partners withdrew.
His influence diminished.
But Roman discovered something unexpected.
He didn't miss being feared as much as he'd imagined.
He liked being trusted.
One evening, he and Sloan walked along the waterfront.
The city lights shimmered across the water.
Roman stopped.
"Sloan."
She looked at him.
"Yes?"
"I owe you an apology."
She smiled.
"For what this time?"
He laughed softly.
"For announcing you were my wife without asking."
Sloan raised an eyebrow.
"That was quite an introduction."
Roman nodded.
"I thought I was protecting you."
She looked at him.
"You were trying to."
He took her hand.
"But I should have asked what you wanted."
Sloan smiled.
"Yes."
Roman took a breath.
"So I'm asking now."
Her heart began pounding.
He reached into his coat.
Then knelt.
Sloan froze.
Roman opened a small velvet box.
Inside was a diamond ring.
"Sloan Bennett."
His voice trembled.
"Will you marry me?"
She stared.
Then laughed through tears.
"You finally learned to ask."
Roman smiled.
"Is that a yes?"
She nodded.
"Yes."
May you like
He stood and kissed her.
And this time, when Roman Costa called Sloan his future wife, it was because she'd chosen him.
