Page 90 of Dublin Devil

“So, when I tell you I love her and will never allow her to be hurt like that again, believe me.”

Rory is only twenty-one, embarking on his journey to becoming his own man. It’s important for him to see the world for what it is and not what he’s been told it is.

The Quinns are not his enemy—not unless he draws a line that puts us on opposite sides.

“Piper is under my protection, and by her request, so are you. As long as you don’t come at us directly, the Quinns will consider you part of our extended family.”

Rory seems to consider that. He smiles at Piper and then looks back at me. “Would you mind if we talked privately?”

I expected as much and am prepared to give them space. “Of course. Take your time.”

I grab my tray and move to a seat by the window. From here, I can keep an eye on them, but am out of earshot, so their visit is private.

Seeing them together, the bond they share is obvious. Thank fuck she had at least one person who loves her.

Powerful families can have different dynamics. Thankfully, our family was always rooted in love and respect of one another.

Piper’s life has been indifference, control, upheaval, and betrayal. That’s over. Her new life is just beginning.

As I sip my milkshake, watching them, I decide that if Rory continues to be good to Piper, I’ll make it my business to ensure the kid doesn’t get consumed by McGuire violence.

He’s young, and with the right influences, maybe he can escape the life that’s already claimed too many.

Piper deserves that much.

It’ll take time to prove to him that we’re not the monsters he’s been bred to believe, but if he’s willing, maybe there could be a different life for him, too.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

Piper

It’s been five days since Sean rescued me on the beach and my father’s control over me ended. Five days of adjusting to the fact that my life is budding to life, and I can make choices. Five days of tension in the air on a business side, but love in the air personally.

And those are the moments I treasure most.

Sean Quinn can be violently protective—I acknowledge that. He will kill to keep me safe, but he’s also endlessly romantic and giving.

He kisses me before he leaves the house, lets me know if his plans change over the course of our time apart, and texts to ask if I need anything on his way home.

He shows me more consideration than anyone ever has—and I love him for it.

Soul deep, heart hammering, love.

“You’re quiet tonight. Is anything wrong?” Sean squeezes my hand and smiles down at me.

We’re touring the grounds and he’s leading me toward the gazebo by the pond. A gentle breeze stirs the leaves of the trees around us. It’s a little chilly, but summer is still trying to stay with us.

Today was my father’s funeral, and Sean hasn’t left my side. He’s been attentive and didn’t even bat an eye when I said Rory sent me the virtual link to watch remotely, if I wanted to.

I didn’t, but I gave the link to Tag in case it could help him in any way, in his quest to keep the family safe.

The setting sun casts long, dappled shadows across our path, its warmth waning as the day succumbs to evening.

“Nothing is wrong. I was just committing the moment to memory: the beauty of your family estate, the unconditional acceptance you’ve shown me, and the excitement of the future expanding before me.”

Sean sends me a sidelong glance. “Beforeus, kitten. I intend to be included in your future, however you imagine it.”

I lean against his shoulder and hug his arm. “You have the starring role, Mr. Quinn.”

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