Total pages in book: 98
Estimated words: 92334 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 462(@200wpm)___ 369(@250wpm)___ 308(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 92334 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 462(@200wpm)___ 369(@250wpm)___ 308(@300wpm)
His face pales. “The biometrics—I never thought he’d try to use you to access the case. That was meant to be a safeguard, a way to protect Claire’s legacy by giving access to someone I trusted completely.”
“But you didn’t trust me enough to tell me about it.” The hurt in my voice is clear. “How did you even get my biometric data? When did that happen?”
“The security system in the penthouse,” he admits, looking ashamed. “The first week you moved in. I . . . I told myself all the cameras, all the viewing, all the control . . . it was for your protection. To be completely honest . . . I forgot I even did it or I would have told you when I came clean about everything.”
I pull my hand back and take another long sip of my drink.
His voice breaks. “There’s no excuse. None.”
I sit with that for a moment, then sigh. “I forgive you,” I say softly, meaning it. “We both made it through. And maybe now we can actually build something with no more secrets between us.”
His eyes meet mine, relief washing over his features. “No more secrets,” he agrees, his thumb tracing over my knuckles. “I promise.”
The cinnamon rolls arrive, still steaming, drowning in icing. Cole’s entire focus shifts, and I have to bite back a smile at his obvious delight.
“I’m starting to think you only brought me here for the pastries.”
“I brought you here because—” He stops, reaching out to brush something from my cheek. “Because I want us to start a Christmas tradition. Cinnamon Rolls at Rivers.”
“Tradition means more than one time, you know . . .” I’m fishing for more. No doubt about it.
“I know exactly what tradition means.” He leans back, his eyes serious. “I never want to feel that helpless again. Not being able to reach you, to protect you—”
I offer a soft smile. “Hey. I’m here. We’re here.”
He presses a kiss to my knuckles, his lips warm against my chilled skin. “You’re right. We’re here. And I plan on keeping it that way.”
I raise an eyebrow, trying to lighten the mood. “Is that your way of saying you’re never letting me out of your sight again?”
Cole laughs, a real one that crinkles the corners of his eyes. “I suppose that’s too much to hope for.”
Cole’s cell buzzes and he takes a minute to read the text. A smile on his face tells me he received good news. “Maya’s found. She managed to get away and was laying low with her family in Jersey, but she’s safe and returning home as we speak.”
I release a breath. “Oh thank god.” I take another long drink.
“Knox says she’s unharmed.”
The waiter appears then, refilling my drink and leaving a fresh carafe of coffee for Cole. We place our breakfast orders—Eggs Benedict for me, steak and eggs for him.
As the waiter departs, Cole’s gaze turns serious again. He reaches into his coat pocket and pulls out a small box, placing it on the table between us.
“Okay, enough of the dark stuff. We need something lighter.”
My heart stutters. “Cole, what—”
“Open it.” His voice is soft but insistent.
With trembling fingers, I lift the lid. Nestled inside is a key. I look up at him, unspoken questions in my eyes.
“It’s to my place,” he explains. “I want you to have it. I want . . .” He takes a breath. “Your collection is complete. New Year’s is almost here. And we have never actually discussed what’s next. I want you to officially move in. Not because of a contract. But by choice. Both of our choices.”
Emotions clog my throat. This man—this strong, brave, cinnamon roll–loving man—is offering me more than just access to his apartment. He’s offering me a future. A partnership in every sense of the word.
I slide my hand into his, the key pressed between our palms. “Cole, I . . . I don’t know what to say.”
He smiles softly. “You don’t have to say anything right now. I know it’s a big step. I just wanted you to know where I stand. Where I hope we’re heading.”
I nod, blinking back the sudden dampness in my eyes. “Can I . . . can I think about it?”
“Of course.” He squeezes my hand. “Take all the time you need. I’m not going anywhere.”
I drink some more of my Bloody Mary, the spice and the vodka bolstering my courage. I set the glass down with a decisive clink.
“Okay, I’ve thought about it.”
Cole raises an eyebrow, a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. “That was quick.”
“What can I say? I’m a decisive woman.” I lean forward, my eyes locked on his. “Yes, Cole Asher. Yes, I will move in with you.”
His grin could light up the entire restaurant. “You’re sure? You don’t need more time to consider the pros and cons? Make a list? Sleep on it?”