My love for him was a fire that warmed my soul, something I couldn’t easily extinguish or ignore. No matter how complicated things got, no matter how many arguments we had or how far apart we were, my love for him remained constant and true.
Inaya sat across from me, a folder spread between us. “What’s the plan for the boutique here? Are you moving to New York permanently?”
I shook my head, feeling clarity. “No specifics yet, but Italy is where I call home. I’ll be splitting my time between here and there.”
Inaya nodded. “And the people from the folder?”
I flipped through, pointing to key names and roles. “Yes, the seamstresses, cashiers, and support staff are all set. They’re amazing at what they do and know my vision for the boutique. They’ll manage everything while I’m in Italy. Ronan spoke with them, but we’ll need to meet soon.”
Inaya smiled. “Sounds like you’ve got it all covered. It’s impressive how you balance everything.”
I smiled back, feeling proud. “I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
Inaya’s eyes lit up. “Speaking of Ronan, he’s been a great support. It’s clear how much he cares about you.”
My heart fluttered at the thought of him. “He’s incredible.Even before we broke up, he was like this. Always the best person, who went the extra mile for me.”
“That boutique is one hell of a gift. I’m not his biggest fan, but damn, he even softened my heart.”
I chuckled. “He melted mine.”
As I gazed out the jet window, the city lights of New York fading, my thoughts shifted. I felt a deep strength in my love for Ronan, a force that transcended time and circumstances. His love had been a constant, steady presence in my life.
I felt invincible, grateful for how far I’d come and how much Ronan’s love had reshaped my world. The past no longer weighed on me; it was part of the journey.
As I savored these thoughts, the flight attendant interrupted. “Mrs. Romano, would you or Ms. Abbas like anything?”
I smiled, shaking my head. “We’re good, thanks.”
The attendant nodded and left, leaving me with a sense of peace.
Inaya raised an eyebrow. “You didn’t correct her.”
I blinked, confused. “Huh?”
Inaya gestured to the attendant. “She called you ‘Mrs. Romano,’ and you didn’t correct her.”
A smile tugged at my lips. “I didn’t realize.”
Inaya laughed. “Well, I think we have our answer.”
I grinned. “I think we do, too.”
Ronan
NEW YORK CITY
Azzaria leaned forward, eyes wide with awe. “You built an entire boutique?” she asked, disbelief in her voice. “I’m not surprised, but that’s huge.”
I smirked, glancing at the amber liquid in my glass. “This coming from the girl with a sandwich shop, an entire safe haven, and a meal named after her?”
Azzaria grinned. “That’s why I’m not surprised. You men are experts in romance.”
“No,” Dillon interrupted, stepping into the room. “We’re experts in who we love.”
I took a sip of scotch. “Truly,” I agreed, letting the word linger.
Azzaria raised an eyebrow. “Where’s Nina?”
