Without Elena, everything began to collapse.
Design deadlines missed. Investors pulling out. Russo circling like a vulture. Even Victoria grew bold, openly questioning Alexander's decisions in meetings.
But the worst part wasn't the empire falling. It was the emptiness. The way the city skyline felt darker without her laughter. The way his bed felt colder without her beside him.
One night, staring out at London, Alexander admitted the truth he had fought so hard to bury.
He didn't just want Elena. He needed her.
And for the first time, Alexander Knight—the man who had sworn love was weakness—knew he was powerless.