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“Wait… you hired them?”

“I told you, Gemma. I’ll do whatever it takes to protect you.”

This man has fought so hard for me.

“Thank you. For everything. I don’t know how I’ll ever repay you.”

Elijah strokes his thumb over my cheek. “Seeing you safe and happy is all I need. Although…” A playful grin tugs at his lips. “I can think of a few ways you could show your appreciation.”

I roll my eyes but can’t help smiling back. “Oh really? Like what?”

Elijah leans in close, his breath warm on my ear. “For starters, wearing nothing but that ring I gave you…”

“I think that could be arranged. If you play your cards right.”

Elijah’s eyes darken.

“Gem?” Bash rushes over, followed by Lil, Mary, and Connor.

“Bad timing,” Elijah murmurs behind me.

I hug my brother tightly.

“Are you okay?” Bash scans me up and down with concern.

“I’m fine. Honestly, it was a relief to see him taken away like that.”

“Did everything go as planned?” Bash asks.

“All done.”

Lil and Mary push past Bash and pull me into a group hug.

“The important thing is, Gemma is safe now,” Lil says.

“Why don’t we get out of here? I think we could all use a drink after the night we’ve had,” Mary says.

“Yes, please. I’m dying to get out of this dress, too,” I say.

We start heading for the exit, but I hang back a little with Elijah, letting the others walk ahead.

“So.” I bump my shoulder against Elijah’s. “Should we continue this celebration back at your place?”

His eyes rake over me. “I thought you’d never ask.”

“Maybe I’ll model that ring for you later… among other things.”

“You want to go now?”

I halt and drag him down by the collar, capturing his lips with mine.

“I want you. Forever.”

Epilogue 1

Istand at the edge of the runway, my heart pounding with anticipation. This is the moment I’ve been dreaming about ever since I first sketched designs at the age of 10. Now, I am about to unveil my first collection to the world.

The first model struts out wearing my black lace teddy as the music starts. The crowd murmurs, cameras flashing. One by one, the models showcase my designs—delicate bralettes, seductive bodysuits, elegant chemises. Each piece is an extension of my vision, my passion.

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