Chapter 14 - THE MAFIA BOSS WHO LEARNED TO ASK
Roman DeLuca had spent most of his life believing that power meant control.
He controlled businesses.
Territory.
Men who feared his name.
But Genevieve had never been impressed by fear.
She questioned him.
Challenged him.
Refused his money when she didn't need it.
And insisted that he respect her independence.
Over time, Roman began changing.
He stepped away from criminal operations.
Cooperated with investigations where appropriate.
Restructured legitimate businesses.
And worked to repair harm caused by his organization.
Elena remained close.
She rebuilt her relationship with her brother.
And continued helping survivors of exploitation.
Genevieve and Roman's friendship grew into something deeper.
They shared dinners.
Long walks.
Quiet conversations.
One evening, Roman invited her to the rooftop garden of his club.
The city glittered beneath them.
Genevieve looked toward the river.
"This is where everything changed."
Roman nodded.
"You arrived in a wedding dress."
She laughed.
"A very expensive disaster."
He smiled.
"You were brave."
"I was terrified."
"Those things aren't opposites."
She looked at him.
Roman took her hand.
"Genevieve."
"Yes?"
"I love you."
Her breath caught.
He continued.
"I don't want to make decisions for you."
She smiled faintly.
"Good."
"I don't want to own your future."
"Also good."
Roman laughed.
Then his expression softened.
"I want to build something with you. If you'll let me."
Genevieve looked into his eyes.
For the first time, she saw no demand.
Only hope.
She stepped closer.
"Then ask me properly."
May you like
Roman smiled.
And lowered himself onto one knee.
