Page 149 of Savage Vicious Heir: Part Two

“I know. I just never imagined… We’re lucky, Abs.” She grabs my hand and squeezes it. “I know things didn’t end well with Elliot’s family but?—”

“It’s fine. Johnathon and Scott aren’t good people. We all know that.” We’ve heard enough stories from the boys after their first year at SCU to confirm what a twisted, sick man Scott really is. “Do I wish that his family could support him, support us, yes. But they don’t and so I’ll love and support him enough to make up for it.”

Her smile widens. “You’re so different to the girl I met two years ago. I’m so proud of you, Abs. Of everything you’ve overcome.” She hugs me tight, whispering, “He’s watching you, you know.”

Of course I know.

Elliot’s intense gaze is like a permanent brand on my skin. Whenever we’re in the same room but not together, I feel him watching. Feel the weight of his stare follow me.

But it doesn’t make me shrink. It doesn’t make me want to run and hide. It makes me stand tall. It lights me up inside and makes me burn.

Knowing that Elliot is always there, ready to fight my battles or stand at my side as I fight my own is more than I ever hoped for.

His love and understanding and encouragement has forged me into a strong, confident young woman who knows what she wants and what she’s capable of.

“Enjoy the party, Abs,” Tally says, giving me a knowing smirk as she walks off.

“There’s my girl.” Elliot slides his arm around my waist, pulling me in close. My hand goes to his chest as I gaze up at him. So giddy and full of love.

“Isn’t this all a bit… much?” I arch a brow and Elliot lets out a small huff.

“You’re one of the wealthiest girls in the county and yet a little luxury still offends you.”

“It doesn’t offend me, Elliot. I just don’t need all this.”

“Good thing it’s not just for you then.” He smirks, leaning down to brush a kiss against my lips. “I love you.”

“I love you too. Can you believe we start uni next month?”

“Not going to lie, Red, never imagined I’d get to have this with you.”

“Any regrets?”

His eyes darken, his fingers tightening on my waist. “The only thing I regret is the time we wasted. That I didn’t make you mine sooner.”

“Elliot…” I breathe, overcome with emotion.

“I need you, Red. Can we sneak away and?—”

“Photo time,” Fiona announces, and the rest of our friends crowd us as we stand and pose for Fiona and Christian and a few other adults invited today. Tally’s parents, Maureen, and Theo’s stepmum and sister Millie.

“Still can’t believe you’re not coming to SCU,” Oakley grumbles.

“Seriously?” Reese says. “Elliot and Scott would destroy each other.”

“Still fucking weird that he acts like you don’t even exist,” Theo adds, earning him an elbow in the ribs from Raine. “Ow, fuck, babe. What was that for?”

She shoots him an incredulous look and we all chuckle. Even Elliot. Because despite how things ended up with his family, he’s happy.

He’s finally free.

And family…

Well, family isn’t always those you share DNA with.

Sometimes, it’s the people you choose.

The people you love unconditionally.

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