Page 49 of Ruthless Kings of Havoc

It’s almost too much to handle, yet I swallow up any emotion that fights for closure.

These peasants need to be reminded of who has been running our society.

The camera, however, can’t help but be focused on our overall appearance.

With Eva wearing a stunning blue gown bedazzled in various diamonds, the pop of color comes to her face thanks to the pop of red lips and the accented pink blush on her pale, flawless cheeks. Her silver locks are down, with not a strand out of place, and her crystal heels help her look a bit closer to my 6’5” height, though the difference between us is still rather obvious.

Instead of wearing a red suit like my little brother, I’m wearing a brilliant baby pink. My interior dress shirt is black, matching the pattern going for my fellow Ruthless Kings, while my tie is accenting a gorgeous bold red—the same shade of Precious Gem’s lips.

With a red rose to further compliment the look and my dark locks combed back to perfection, I have to admit I look good for my grand introduction. Before long, we’re standing right where we need to be in the designated spot between Benedict and Albrecht.

It’s interesting that despite the lack of space, Eva fits so perfectly at my side.

Blends so wonderfully into our dynamic on this stage.

One glance at the back screen allows me to get a view of all four of us. How our retrospective colors come into play, painting out a unique rainbow that compliments us immensely.

For the first time, I allow myself to smile. Not one of a boy finally getting what he wants, but a man who’s acknowledging the promotion he’s worked hard to obtain. Benedict and Albrecht seem to pick up quickly because they, too, smile and allow the cameras to go wild as they capture the moment.

I peer over to Eva, seeing the stunning smile on her red lips that makes her eyes shine so brilliantly in the spotlight. She genuinely looks happy and proud to stand next to this group of chosen Royals.

To be announced as my future wife.

My lingering gaze must be long enough for her to sense, for she’s staring up into my eyes, and God...she’s so stunning, I can almost envision her actually being mine to claim.The strength she’s projecting at this moment, with so many viewing her—judging and wondering about what she can bring to our dynamic of sinister rulers.

I feel an odd sense of pride because this was the little girl I’d left to walk through those big gates. The little girl who was sobbing uncontrollably at her new reality of never being able to use her legs again.

This little girl gave my brother saving grace when no one else would have been in the same predicament…

This little girl is no longer little.

She’s a woman, a mesmerizing, smart, cunning prize I suddenly have the privilege to claim. Am I worthy enough to maintain her? To keep her by my side?

This year of havoc will force us all to find out.

I wonder how this moment is projected to the rest of the world.

To my little brother in particular.

I’d have to look back at the tapes to see his reaction, but I can only wish he’s fuming with nothing but jealousy. To get hit not once or twice, but three times at once.

To steal away the pride from his father.

To be supported by his best friends at my side.

To look into the eyes of the woman he so carelessly bullied, tried to ruin, and steal her light from the world.

I’ve gained them all.

All behind his back.

I lean down and whisper in her ear, knowing the world of flashing lights and approval would never have the privilege to hear or read my lips.

“Can you see how they envy us? How they’re forced to acknowledge the power bestowed upon this platform of fame,” I whisper the words carefully and watch how her smile grows. “Savor this moment, Precious. This is the beginning of our domination.”

I don’t know what comes over me, but I cup her cheek with my left hand and lay my lips on hers the next second.

The crowd around us is losing it in cheers, but to me, it all funnels out as I’m focused on how soft and tender Eva’s lips are. How she seems to melt at my touch and dive into the kiss as though she wants it just as badly as I do.

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