Chapter 354
Damien
I can't believe it.
I won.
By a landslide, actually.
I stand at the podium, looking out at the sea of faces—supporters, reporters, curious onlookers. The other candidates are behind me, their fake congratulatory grins firmly in place.
It feels good.
I take a breath. Adjust my notes. Step up to the microphone.
"Thank you for your trust in me." My voice carries across the hall, amplified by speakers, captured by a dozen cameras. "Thank you for giving me a second term as your Mayor."
The applause is loud. Genuine.
I let it wash over me for a moment. Then I continue.
"It's been... not easy." I let my voice soften. Let the weight of the past months show on my face. "Life has thrown me curveballs I didn't anticipate. Challenges I never expected. Moments that tested everything I thought I knew about myself."
I pause. Look down. Look forlorn.
The crowd is silent.
