SWNOVELS Chapter Dark Prince: EPILOGUE II
Two years later…
Standing on the edge of the sprawling lawn, the mansion lit up like a beacon behind us; I can’t help but feel a sense of pride swelling in my chest. It’s Michael’s second birthday, and the place is buzzing with energy and laughter. I’m trying to focus on the conversation I’m having with Grigori, but my gaze keeps drifting back to where my son is, his laughter the most captivating sound in the world.
“He’s such a handsome boy,” Grigori remarks, following my gaze for a moment before bringing the conversation back to the task at hand. “About the expansion, we’ve got the South Side nearly under control, and with the east looking to fall into place, we’re set for a total city takeover.”
I nod, the strategic part of my brain kicking in, but then Michael’s laughter rings out again, pulling my attention away. Maura is there with him, looking radiant and so fiercely content that it warms me from the inside out.
“Yeah, the east will be a nice win,” I say in a distracted manner, my eyes tracking my son as he stumbles into Maura’s waiting arms. “We need to make sure the transition is smooth and minimize any disruptions.”
Grigori follows my gaze again, a smirk playing on his lips. “Luk, for a man planning a city takeover, you sure are easily preoccupied.”
I can’t help but chuckle. “Can you blame me? Look at my boy.” My tone softens, a rare occurrence that doesn’t go unnoticed.
“Understandable. But back to business, we’ve also got to consider our new ventures. The shipping lines are looking promising, and with the right moves, we could easily monopolize the market in Chicago,” Grigori continues, trying to steer the conversation back to our future prospects.
I force my attention back to him, knowing the importance of what we’re discussing. “Right, the shipping lines. If we secure them, we’ll be in complete control of the flow into the city. It’s a critical move.”
As much as I’m invested in our conversation, part of me is always with Michael, watching as he runs from one family member to another, each face lighting up with joy at his presence. It’s moments like these that remind me why I do what I do. Why do I fight so hard? It’s not just for power or control; it’s for them—for Michael, for Maura, for the future I want to give them.
As Grigori and I delve deeper into the complexities of our ever-expanding empire, the conversation naturally drifts toward Maura. Her ascent within the Flanagan operations isn’t just noticeable; it’s downright impressive. We recount recent maneuvers she’s orchestrated, each one more impressive than the last. Her ability to navigate the treacherous waters of our world with grace and a firm hand has both of us tipping our hats in respect.
“Her latest play with the docks,” I say, admiration lacing my tone. “She not only secured a better rate but also established a new route that’s cut delivery times in half. It’s brilliant.”
Grigori nods in agreement. “And let’s not forget how she handled the West Side dispute. Without a single shot being fired, she turned potential rivals into allies. Your wife is a force to be reckoned with, Luk.”
Just then, as if summoned by our praise, Maura approaches us. She’s a vision, effortlessly blending the role of a doting mother and a formidable leader. She’s chosen a flowing dress that hugs her in all the right places, its deep green hue complementing her fiery red hair, which cascades over her shoulders in soft waves. The dress, accentuated with subtle gold jewelry, highlights her strength and elegance. She wears her power as effortlessly as the smile on her lips.
“Talking shop on our boy’s birthday, are we?” Maura teases, raising an eyebrow in mock disapproval, her eyes dancing with amusement.
Grinning sheepishly, I can’t help but admire her all over again. “Guilty as charged though we were also singing your praises, love.”
She shakes her head, a playful smirk playing on her lips. “As flattering as that sounds, you two promised. Today is for family, for Michael.”
I nod, guilty as charged. “You’re right, as always. Time to put business aside and celebrate our boy.” The genuine joy of the day, the celebration of our son’s birthday, pulls me back to what matters most.
Maura’s expression softens as she glances between Grigori and me. “Grigori, would you mind giving us a moment? Luk and I need to discuss something privately.”
With an understanding nod, Grigori excuses himself, leaving Maura and me alone. There’s a shift in her demeanor, a seriousness that piques my curiosity. “Let’s go inside,” she suggests, her voice carrying an underlying note of importance.
We head into the house, the noise of the party fading behind us as we make our way to our bedroom—a sanctuary away from the complexities of our lives. Once inside, Maura turns to me, her expression one that I’ve come to recognize when she’s about to broach something significant.
As I pull Maura close, feeling the tension in her body, I’m reminded of her strength, of how much she carries on her shoulders in doing what she does—not just in terms of our family and business but the weight of her own thoughts, responsibilities, and fears. The kiss I place on her forehead is one of reassurance, a silent promise that I’m always here, no matter the potential trouble.
The balcony offers a view of life in its purest form—laughter, chatter, and the innocence of children playing. It’s a stark contrast and welcome change from the world Maura and I often navigate.
“What’s on your mind?” I ask, my voice low, filled with concern. “If it’s the business, you know you can step back. There’s nothing more important than you and Michael.” My words are genuine, the well-being of my family always taking precedence over the empire we’ve built.
Maura shakes her head, her gaze fixed on the horizon. “It’s not the business, Luk.” There’s hesitation in her voice, a rarity for her. She turns to face me, her eyes searching mine. “I know we hadn’t planned on expanding our family just yet, but…” She pauses, taking a deep breath. “I’m pregnant.”
For a moment, time stands still. Her words echo in my heart. I search her face, expecting to find fear, but instead, I’m met with vulnerability, a rare sight seen by my wife.
The thought of being upset never crosses my mind. Instead, a wave of unbridled joy crashes over me. “Pregnant?” The word feels like a blessing on my lips, a gift we hadn’t expected but are so grateful to receive. Without hesitation, I wrap her in my arms, my heart swelling with emotion so potent it threatens to overwhelm me. “I’m thrilled, Maura. Truly.”
Her body relaxes against mine, her relief palpable. Tears of happiness glisten in her eyes, mirroring my own. “Really?” she asks, as if unable to believe my reaction.
“Absolutely,” I affirm, my hold on her tightening. There’s nothing I want more than to grow our family with you.” The words promise my unwavering support and love for her and our growing family.
At that moment, the happiness of our son’s second birthday carrying on below, the future seems even brighter, filled with so many more possibilities, the promise of another new life about to grow.
We stand there on the balcony for a bit, holding one another and watching the party below. “Imagine, two little tykes giving us the runaround,” she says, her voice filled with happiness and excitement.
I can’t help but grin, feeling a swell of pride. “With you guiding them, they’re going to conquer the world,” I tell her, meaning every word.
“With us guiding them,” she corrects me. “And with you protecting them, they’ll never falter,” she adds, her fingers finding mine, a touch that speaks volumes.
I place my other hand on her beautiful face, pulling her close, kissing her long and deep. “I promise to add more to that later. But right now, it’s time for us to return to the party,” I say, my voice laced with earnest. I’ve taken to my role of being a dad like a fish to water, something I never saw coming but now can’t imagine being without.
We head downstairs, eager to return to our son’s birthday celebration. Our bond feels as if it’s become even stronger, a joyous secret we now share that adds a new layer to our relationship.
Hand in hand, we step back into the fray, the laughter and excitement of the party a stark contrast to the serenity of our bedroom. The sun is shining down on us, mirroring the brightness of our spirits.
As we mingle with our friends and family, a silent exchange occurs between us, a promise that no matter what comes our way, we will conquer it. We’ve got plans and dreams, and now another little one is on the way. It’s a future filled with unknowns, but one thing’s for sure—together, we’re invincible.