Chapter 30
The gala proceeded flawlessly. Claire navigated the complex political and social dynamics with terrifying, effortless grace. She was a master of the game she had violently rewritten.
As the evening wound down, Claire and Evan stepped out onto the expansive, private balcony overlooking the city skyline. The night air was cool and refreshing. The glittering lights of the metropolis stretched out before them, a vast empire operating under her absolute command.
"It's really pretty," Evan murmured, leaning against the stone balustrade.
"It is," Claire agreed softly. She stood behind him, wrapping her arms securely around his shoulders, resting her chin on his head.
She looked out over the city. She had survived a sociopathic warlord, dismantled a cruel, aristocratic family, and executed anyone who dared to threaten her blood. She had utilized the darkness to forge an impenetrable sanctuary of light.
"Are you happy, Evan?" Claire asked, her voice a low, tender whisper.
May you like
"I'm always happy with you, Mom," Evan smiled, turning to hug her.
Claire closed her eyes, holding her son tightly in the cinematic glow of the city lights. The monsters of their past were permanently buried. The empire was invincible. Claire Bennett had won the war, and her family was finally, eternally safe.
