“We are married, silly,” Danielle mumbles with a laugh as I tug the plain band down to slide on the diamond ring she deserves to wear. “I didn’t need a new ring.”
“It’s a symbol, Danielle,” I say, kissing her lips softly as I wipe away her tears. “It’s me telling you that you’re everything. I’ve been a dick, and I want you to be my wife. For real.”
Danielle lifts her hands around my neck, and the vulnerability in her eyes makes me hate myself even more.
“If you fuck me over again, I deserve it, for giving you a second chance.”
“I’ll fuck you over and over again, but never will I fuck you over.”
“So romantic.”
“Will you?”
Danielle nods, waving the ring in front of me. “Duh, have you seen the size of this baby?!”
I kiss her, and this time something is different.
Something has shifted, and I’m fucking grateful.
I’ve got my girl back.
“Got her, Dad,” I whisper as Danielle squeezes me tight. “And I’ll never let her go.”
CHAPTER 26
DANIELLE
After a busy week in the office, I find myself feeling under the weather.
Stuffed up nose, aching limbs, and no taste or smell.
I’m ill.
Kayla had come over earlier with Barbara, both of them fussing over me as they stocked chicken soup in the fridge, plumping my pillows and making sure I was warm enough.
Barbara and I were able to catch up, and she shared that my mom is struggling to believe I am happy.
“She knew it was a fake marriage, Danielle.”
“I know, but it’s not now. It’s really not.” I blow my nose as she nods, a faraway look in her eyes.
“I know, but you can understand why that would be hard for your mom to believe.”
I nod.
Of course, I do.
Mom wants what is best for me, and at the time this agreement was made, I’d thought that was a million dollars and a cushy five years.
Now?
Now I’m in love with my ex, who’s my husband, and I’m running the company by his side.
You can’t make this up.
“Are you sure you don’t want me to make you some soup before I go?” Barbara asks, feeling my forehead. “You’re so warm.”
“I’m freezing.” My teeth chatter as she frowns, glancing at Kayla.
