Page 15 of Tycoon

I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself. “I want to trust you, Andrew. It’s just hard after Darriun.”

“I understand. But remember, I’m not Darriun and he’s doing this to get under your skin. Don’t let him succeed. We can build something real, and I’m not going to let him destroy that.”

I nodded, even though he couldn’t see me. “You’re right. I’m sorry for doubting you.”

“It’s okay. We’ll get through this together. The wedding is next weekend, and I’m looking forward to working on us as a couple.”

“Thank you, Andrew. I’m looking forward to it too.”

After we hung up, I felt a little better, but the unease still lingered. I decided to call Stacy. She always knew how to put things into perspective for me.

“Hey, girl! What’s up?” Stacy’s cheerful voice was a welcome sound.

“I’ve had a bit of a rough day,” I admitted, explaining the situation with Darriun and the photo.

“That guy is a piece of work,” Stacy said. “He’s just trying to mess with your head. You and Andrew are solid. Don’t let Darriun get to you.”

“Thanks, Stacy. I needed to hear that.”

“Anytime, Amara. Remember, you deserve to be happy. Don’t let anyone take that away from you.”

We talked for a while longer, and by the time we hung up, I felt more at ease. Stacy was right. I couldn’t let Darriun’s attempts to disrupt my life succeed. I had to trust in what Andrew, and I was building together.

The next morning, I woke up determined to put Darriun’s interference behind me. I made breakfast, played some music, and tried to focus on the positive aspects of my life. Andrew called me later that day, and we made plans to have dinner together.

That evening, as we sat across from each other at the restaurant where we first met, I felt a sense of calm wash over me. Andrew reached across the table and took my hand.

“I’m here for you, Amara. No matter what Darriun tries, he can’t break us.”

I smiled, feeling a renewed sense of confidence. “I know. And I’m not going to let him.”

We enjoyed our meal, laughing and talking about everything but the drama that had unfolded. For the first time in days, I felt truly at peace. I realized that as long as Andrew and I communicated and trusted each other, we could overcome any obstacle.

***

Andrew

Driving back to my place, the soft strains of jazz filled the SUV, creating a soothing backdrop for our quiet conversation. The gentle rhythm of the music seemed to echo the calm we had found in each other after dinner. Amara sat beside me, her hand in mine, her touch grounding me in a way that was both new and familiar. The city lights blurred past us as we drove, their glow reflected in her eyes, which shone with a mixture of love and tenderness.

“You know,” Amara said, her voice barely louder than a whisper, “tonight has been perfect.”

I glanced at her, feeling a surge of affection. “I'm glad. You deserve perfect.”

Her smile was radiant, lighting up the dim interior of the car. “So do you, Andrew.”

We continued to talk, our voices low and intimate, sharing hopes and dreams, plans for the future, and small secrets that only deepened our bond. Each word was a promise, to the strength of what we were building together. The drive felt like a dream, a bubble of warmth and security that insulated us from the world outside.

When we finally arrived at my house, I parked the car and took a moment to look at Amara, savoring the way the moonlight played across her features. “Welcome to my home,” I said softly.

She squeezed my hand, her eyes full of warmth and curiosity. “I adore this place.”

“Thank you. I want you to make this your home away from home.”

Amara smiled as she nodded. I meant those words. This house was too big for one person. It was meant to be filled with a wife and babies. That thought didn’t scare me, it sent a warm sensation through my heart.

My mansion was an old, elegant structure, a blend of classic and contemporary design. As we walked up the stone steps, I could see her taking it all in—the extensive entrance with towering columns, and the expansive front yard bathed in the soft glow of strategically placed lights. I unlocked the door and led her inside, the familiar scent of cedarwood and vanilla welcoming us.

“Let me show you around,” I offered, and she nodded eagerly.

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