Mirror Crown
The car ride back was quiet—comfortably so. Tasha's hand still rested lightly in mine, her head tilted toward the window, city lights flickering across her face like stardust. I watched her, this girl who had everything but peace, and it hit me—I was getting in deeper than I planned.
This wasn't just playing Christian anymore.
This was something else.
We pulled up to her estate, and the driver did his usual slow, respectful stop. I hopped out and walked her to the door, hand still in hers. She turned to me, eyes searching mine.
"Thank you," she said softly. "For everything. No one's ever stood up for me like that."
I smiled. "Get used to it."
She hesitated, like she wanted to kiss me but didn't know if this version of me was the same one she thought she knew. I made it easy. I leaned in first—just a soft kiss, barely there, but full of promise.
Then I turned and left without another word.
Power move? Maybe.
But mostly, I just needed to think.
The ride back to the mansion was a blur. When I stepped inside, Amelia was already waiting in the hall, iPad in one hand, sleek black folder in the other. Her eyes scanned my face, sharp and professional, like always.
"You're serious about acquiring Valtessa?" she asked without preamble.
I nodded. "I want it by end of week. Set up a meeting with my dad in the morning. I'll handle the pitch."
"Done," she replied. "But… Xavier?"
I turned. That was rare. She rarely used my real name now.
"You sure you're ready to play in the big leagues? That company is no joke. Neither is the family behind it."
"I'm not playing anymore, Amelia," I said quietly. "I am Christian Black. And I'm done reacting. It's time I start making the moves."
She nodded once. "Alright, then. I'll clear your calendar. You're scheduled to meet your dad at 10 a.m. sharp."
"And tell him," I added, "this is my first personal acquisition. I want it clean. Quiet. And under my terms."
As she walked away, I stood there a moment longer in the grand marble foyer.
Xavier was gone. At least for now.
Christian Black—the spoiled heir, the golden boy, the untouchable crown prince—had just taken his first real step into empire-building.
And this time… it was personal.