Chapter 6 - The Throne We BuiltSix months later, the view from the penthouse office of the De Santis Tower in central Rome was breathtaking.
The sun was setting, painting the ancient rooftops in shades of gold and crimson.
Massimo sat behind the massive mahogany desk that had once belonged to Carlo, though now it was covered not just in shipping ledgers, but in architectural plans for a new philanthropic foundation bearing Livia’s name.
The door opened softly, and Livia walked in. She wore a sleek black cashmere turtleneck, her hair loose, and her tortoiseshell glasses resting playfully on the bridge of her nose—worn now not as a disguise, but simply because she liked how they looked.
Massimo stood up instantly, walking around the desk to intercept her. He wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her against him, burying his face in her neck.
“You’ve been working for ten hours straight,” Massimo murmured against her skin, his voice rich with adoration. “Even the most terrifying queen in Rome is allowed to sleep.”
Livia laughed softly, resting her hands on his broad shoulders. She leaned back, looking into his stormy gray eyes with a tender, triumphant smile.
“I was just reviewing the new port acquisitions in Marseille, husband,” Livia teased lightly. “Somebody has to make sure you don't accidentally bankrupt us buying another vintage Ferrari.”
Massimo smiled, a genuine, radiant expression that only she was ever allowed to see. He leaned down, capturing her lips in a deep, lingering kiss.
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“Let them bankrupt us,” Massimo whispered against her mouth. “As long as I have you by my side, we own the world.”
Outside, the lights of Rome flickered on one by one—an empire ruled by a reformed prince and the brilliant, fearless queen who had saved his life, his fortune, and his soul.
