Chapter 9 - The Declaration
A month later, Zo hosted the annual Winter Gala at the estate—a grand gathering attended by every influential figure, business leader, and high-society mogul in Chicago.
The grand ballroom was illuminated by massive crystal chandeliers, filled with classical music, champagne, and velvet-draped tables.
At 8:00 PM, Zo stepped onto the grand marble balcony overlooking the crowd, dressed in a sharp, tailored black tuxedo. Beside him stood Tessa, wearing a breathtaking floor-length emerald green silk gown, her hair styled in soft waves, a diamond necklace glittering at her throat.
A wave of shocked whispers rippled through the elite crowd. Many recognized her as the quiet maid who used to clean the halls months prior.
Zo stepped up to the microphone, his powerful voice cutting through the hushed room.
"Tonight, I have brought you all here to make an official announcement," Zo declared, looking around the room with absolute authority. "For years, people have called this estate a fortress built on fear. But tonight, it becomes a home."
He turned to face Tessa, taking her hand and bringing it to his lips in front of every power player in Chicago.
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"Tessa Cole came into my life holding nothing but love for her child and honor in her heart," Zo said, his eyes burning with devotion. "She proved to me that real strength isn't built on violence—it's built on love. From this night forward, she is my partner, my equal, and the future Mrs. Rossi."
The room erupted into polite applause and awe, but Tessa heard none of it. She only saw the dark, fierce eyes of the man holding her hand like she was the most valuable treasure in the world.
