Chapter 6 - The Scholar's Queen
One Year Later
The grand ballroom of the Plaza Hotel was bathed in the warm light of crystal chandeliers.
It was the annual Manhattan Cultural Heritage Gala—the most prestigious gathering of politicians, academics, and high-society elites in the country.
Standing near the stage was a group of wealthy university donors and professors, speaking in hushed, respectful tones.
I stood at the center of the room, wearing a breathtaking midnight-blue velvet gown that hugged my curves, my blonde hair styled in intricate, elegant braids adorned with small diamond pins. Around my neck sat a stunning sapphire necklace—a gift from Dominic on our one-year anniversary.
"Dr. Linwood’s daughter," a renowned Harvard professor said, offering me a respectful bow. "Your recent paper on the Corsican maritime ciphers of the 19th century has completely revolutionized the field of historical cryptanalysis, Miss Linwood. We would be honored if you would accept a guest lectureship next spring."
"I would be delighted, Professor," I smiled warmly, my voice confident, clear, and commanding the respect of every person in the circle.
From across the room, I felt a familiar, intense gaze locking onto me.
I looked over.
Dominic Russo stood near the mahogany bar, wearing a flawless black tuxedo. He was surrounded by two city senators and a Supreme Court judge who were hanging onto his every word.
Yet, he wasn't looking at them. His steel-gray eyes were fixed entirely on me, filled with a deep, possessive pride and unconditional love.
He excused himself from the politicians, walking smoothly across the ballroom floor toward me. The crowd naturally parted to let him pass, treating him with the absolute reverence reserved for kings.
He stopped beside me, wrapping his arm securely around my waist, pulling me flush against his side.
"Are these academics bothering you, my love?" Dominic asked playfully, pressing a soft kiss to my cheek.
"Not at all," I laughed softly, resting my hand on his chest. "Professor Vance was just inviting me to lecture at Harvard."
"They'll have to wait their turn," Dominic smirked, looking down at me with an intensity that still made my heart race. "The Queen of New York has a busy schedule."
As the orchestra began to play a soft, sweeping waltz, Dominic took my hand, leading me out onto the center of the marble dance floor.
We moved together in perfect, effortless harmony, surrounded by the lights, the music, and the glittering elite of the city.
I looked up into the eyes of the man who had looked at a quiet, invisible waitress carrying a water pitcher... and seen a titan.
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I was no longer hiding in the shadows. I was no longer afraid of the dark.
I was Maya Linwood-Russo. The girl who broke the dead code... and found her home in the arms of the king.
