Later that night, Lucien led her into the rooftop garden of his estate—now hers too, if she wanted it.
"SilvyrTech is being dismantled," he said. "The good pieces—the research, the medical applications—I want you to rebuild it."
Aria raised a brow. "Rebuild a tech empire?"
Lucien nodded. "As CEO. With your name on the door.
She stared at him.
"You're serious."
"I've never been more serious."
He took her hand.
"This isn't about power. It's about ownership. Of your story. Your future."
Aria looked out over the city lights.
"You're offering me a kingdom," she whispered.
Lucien stepped closer. "No. I'm offering you freedom. And maybe… if you'll have it—me."
Their lips met.
No war. No blood. Just breath and warmth and peace—for once.
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