Page 35 of The Last Shadow

“I had some time to think, and I believe you’re right. This is exactly what I need.”

“Let’s go then.” I grab Frankie’s bags and the fob for the sleek black SUV.

As we head outside, she glances at me with a curious expression. “Where are we going?”

“It’s a surprise,” I reply, keeping my tone light.

Her eyes narrow. “A surprise? Really? Do I look like I need a surprise right now?”

“Yep. You’ll love it.”

We hit the road, and the ride is comfortably silent, occasionally broken by a song or two. We are both lost in our thoughts until the cabin comes into view. I decide to keep the destination a secret for now. I want her to experience the surprise with no negative thoughts creeping in.

I push the fob that opens the gate and Frankie’s eyes go wide. “Wow. Is this your cabin?”

I laugh. “No, it’sourcabin. Do you like it?”

“It’s gorgeous.” She leans forward to take in the details of the three-story cabin made from actual logs. It’s modern but with a rustic flair and surrounded by greenery. “Damien, this place is amazing.” Her gaze locks onto mine, and while there’s awe in her eyes, I can sense something else. Something wary.

“What are you thinking about?”

“Nothing.” She shakes her head, gaze still on the cabin as we approach. “I was just thinking that I didn’t even realize you had this property. Not that I need to know, but it caught me off guard. That’s all.”

The more she doubts now, the more she’ll believe me when I need her to. “I’m happy to show you my real estate portfolio, Francesca. This isn’t a secret. There are just too many properties to think about. Unless I need to bring my beautiful wife to one.”

“Good answer.” For the first time since she arrived back at the penthouse, she seems lighter. Less burdened by betrayal. But it doesn’t last long, a few minutes unpacking and the darkness settles over her again.

I want to ask her about it, but I need that darkness, that distrust to fester. It’s cruel, I’m aware, but it’s also necessary. “Why don’t you go wash the day off you while I get dinner started?”

“You’re cooking again?”

“Let’s say yes because that’s far more impressive than saying the chef prepared a bunch of easy to heat meals for us.”

Her lips stretch into an easy grin and then a small laugh erupts. “Yes, to the shower and I’m still impressed by you, Damien.” The love shining in her eyes tells me she means it.

Good. That makes everything easier.

“What smells so good?”

I’ll never tire of the tone she uses when someone is making her food. My eyes close and I inhale deeply. “That hint of lavender and vanilla says it’s you.”

“Charmer.”

I turn and find her with her head tilted as she studies me. I look at her in return, taking in the sight of her long, shapely legs in the denim blue shorts with a silk camisole. She looks effortlessly beautiful and her damp, slightly messy hair completes the look. “What’s going on behind those beautiful brown eyes?”

“Everything,” she admits. “Work. Lifelong friendships. The usual.” Her deadpan delivery is like a punch to the gut.

“I’m an excellent listener,” I tell her and pour us both a glass of wine. “If you’re up for talking. Or venting if that’s your thing.”

“Wow, look who’s auditioning for husband of the year.”

I wiggle my brows and slide the glass across the table. “I have to audition?”

“Don’t worry, I have it on good authority you’ll make it to the top spot.” She holds the glass by the stem before taking several large sips, ending with a satisfying sigh. She watches me carefully. Too carefully.

“What’s on your mind, Francesca?”

“Everything,” she admits quietly. “You and Jay know each other. Like, know. From before.” It’s not a question or even an accusation, just a statement of fact. “Neither of you said a word to me and now I wonder who, if anyone, I can trust.” She has a distant look in her eyes, as if she can’t see me or anyone else, lost in the chaos of mistrust.

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