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I shake my head, unable to meet her concerned gaze. “It doesn't matter now.” My throat tightens as I think about the stalker. “The point is, this guy is completely obsessed.”
My fingers clench into fists at my sides. “He must have read about your wedding to Montague and put two and two together. You were a pawn in his sick game to get back at your dad.”
I trail off, thoughts going back to all the moments we shared. Lingering touches, secret kisses, falling asleep in each other's arms.
I got distracted and let my heart overrule my head. And now, as Thomas becomes more aggressive and reckless, my negligence puts Gemma in greater danger.
Gemma closes the distance between us, her soft hands cupping my face. “No, Dylan Knight. You need to hear me out. The only thing you're guilty of is being human. Of wanting to feel a real connection, just like I do.”
I am completely captivated by this woman in front of me.
“You’re not alone in this,” I murmur into her hair. “We're going to make him pay for what he's done.”
Her voice softens. “I heard what you said about wanting to tear Thomas apart. As sweet as that is, I have a better idea.”
If she thinks physical violence is sweet, I can't wait to hear what she has planned. Enlighten me,” I say, intrigued by the determined glint in her eye.
Gemma smiles knowingly. “I've been doing some digging of my own. Turns out my dear fiance Julian isn't as virtuous as he pretends.” She grabs her laptop, clicking through files. “Lavish vacations, tabloid sightings with models, and other activities that don’t match up with his 'ethical businessman' image.
I let out an impressed whistle as she shows me photo after incriminating photo.
“Julian’s been covering up his playboy lifestyle and has more than a few vices. With this, my father will have to break off the engagement. There’s no way he'll risk that kind of publicity.” Satisfaction colors Gemma's voice.
“Give ‘em enough rope.” I shake my head in amazement. My girl doesn't miss a thing. “Have I mentioned you're brilliant?”
She laughs, eyes crinkling at the corners. “Oh, only about a hundred times now.”
I draw her closer. “Well, make that a hundred and one. Because you are a kick-ass lady who doesn't need a man to save her.”
“I don't need one, but I certainly want one in particular.”
I kiss her deeply, this woman I love. My partner in all things. With Gemma by my side, I know we can take on anything.
When we finally break apart, foreheads touching, Gemma sighs contentedly. “Come on, let's head home. We've got work to do.”
I open my mouth to protest, but she presses on. “The board will have no choice but to accept me in a leadership role once we bring Thomas down. An anonymous tip-off to the police, and I’ll get the company back on solid footing, call off this wedding, and be free to live my life. With you.”
She pauses, searching my face hopefully. “Only if that's what you want too, of course.”
I crush her against me, mouth finding hers in a searing kiss that leaves us both breathless. “Woman, you are a force of nature. And I want nothing more than to be by your side. Protecting you, loving you. For as long as you'll have me.”
Gemma's answering smile is radiant. “Then it's settled. We do this together. No more hiding, no more playing it safe. Time to take back our lives.”
She kisses me again, soft and sweet this time. Then she steps back, eyes glinting determinedly.
“Now, let's go make things right.”
Epilogue 1
Gemma
The soundof conversation and clinking glasses washes over me as I survey the scene at Caldwell Estates, transformed for our gala celebrating the new eco-resort. Guests mingle on the patio while servers circulate with hors d'oeuvres and champagne.
The gala is the result of months of planning and signifies a new chapter for our family's legacy. We've modernized operations with a focus on sustainable practices, and this gala marks the official unveiling.
“Gemma, you've outdone yourself,” Lisa says, appearing at my side. I hug my bubbly friend tightly, her infectious smile lighting up the room.
“So, tell me about the changes here,” she says, eyes bright with interest. I grin, thrilled to share the resort's transformation. “I love that you're inspiring the next generation,” Lisa says.
