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"Let's get out of here," she suggests, her voice shaky but determined. She takes my hand, and together we walk past the gawking faces of the elite diners, their expensive perfumes and colognes doing nothing to hide their shock at our display.
"Never thought I'd make a scene like that," I confess as we step outside, breathing in the cool night air. The city lights twinkle above us, casting a romantic glow on the streets below.
"Neither did I," Claire admits with a small laugh. "Did you see their faces? Wait until word of this gets back to my father. The scandal will infuriate him."
My lips tip up into a smile.
Hearing her laughter fills me with a warmth that spreads from my chest to the tips of my fingers, and I realize that no matter how out of my league she seems, no matter how different our worlds are, we were meant to be together. The love we share transcends any barriers society tries to put between us.
"Let's go home," I say, pulling her close and kissing the top of her head. "Together."
"Home," she echoes, snuggling into my embrace as we walk away from the glitz and glamour of her old life and toward the future we're building together.
And I vow to myself that I'm going to give her everything she wants and more.
EPILOGUE
Five Years Later
Claire
Sunlight filtersthrough the curtains as I slowly awaken, my thoughts drifting to the man who lies beside me. Billy's deep, even breaths bring a sense of peace and security, wrapping around me like a warm embrace. My heart swells with love for him and our daughter, Lily—the family we have built together without my father.
I recall the way my father fought this so hard, but in the end, there was no way I was going to give Billy or my dreams up. It’s sad that my father can’t be a part of our lives, but it’s the path he chose. Yet, instead of feeling bitterness or resentment, I find solace in the love that surrounds me now. My chosen family has brought me more happiness than I could have ever imagined.
"Morning, love," Billy murmurs, his blue eyes meeting mine as he pulls me closer. Our lips meet in a tender kiss, sealing the promise of another beautiful day together.
"Morning," I whisper back, my heart skipping a beat at the sight of his handsome face.
As the morning unfolds, we slip into our daily routines, ready to make a difference in the world around us. Billy heads off to work at his garage, where he continues to transform lives by providing employment and mentorship to young mechanics. I admire his tenacity and dedication, his entrepreneurial spirit turning a once struggling business into a successful nationwide chain.
My own passion has led me to create a non-profit organization that supports underprivileged families, offering resources and assistance to those in need. With Billy's unwavering support, I've been able to pursue my dreams and make a lasting impact on countless lives.
"Mommy, can you help me pick out clothes?" Lily asks as she enters our bedroom, her big green eyes eager and innocent.
"Of course, sweetie," I reply and follow her into her room.
Together, we choose a bright yellow dress adorned with flowers, a reflection of her vibrant spirit. As I help her change, I think of how proud I am to be her mother and to be able to provide her with the love and support I always wished for.
"Can we go see Daddy at work later?" she asks, her face lighting up at the thought.
"Sure thing, Lily. We'll make it a surprise," I say, and her excitement is contagious.
Later that day, as we walk hand-in-hand toward Billy's garage, I am struck by the sense of community and camaraderie he has fostered. His employees greet us warmly, their smiles genuine and welcoming.
"Hey there, little one!" one of them calls out to Lily, who beams in response.
"Hi! My daddy works here," she proudly proclaims, her chest puffed out in pride.
"Your daddy's the best boss we could ask for," the mechanic replies, ruffling her hair affectionately.
"Surprise, Daddy!" Lily shouts as we enter his office, her enthusiasm melting my heart.
"Hey, my favorite girls!" Billy exclaims, scooping Lily into his arms and planting a kiss on her forehead. His gaze lingers on me, filled with love and adoration. "How's your day been?"
"Even better now that we're here with you," I reply, our eyes locked in a moment of pure connection.
"Another successful day at the garage, handsome?" I ask as Billy's eyes meet mine. Fuck but I love the way he looks in his grease-streaked work clothes.
