Page 163 of King Of Order

‘Just us,’ I repeated, the words settling into me.

I leaned into him, resting my head on his shoulder as the waves rolled in.

Soul flying with the promise of what tomorrow would bring.

Epilogue

VALERIO

The vista of a new ocean stretched before me.

In a bright and bold collage of sapphire and cobalt hues in the form of the ocean framed by soaring cliffs and native emerald flora.

The purity of the salt brine in the air tingled my nose. This was a world away from the Mediterranean, and I loved it.

From every angle, I tagged some of the world’s finest and most famous beaches, ranging from a few meters to several kilometers, along Sydney’s coastline and its harbors, bays, and rivers.

Our new home, too, was something out of a dream.

The sunlight spilled into the room, filling it with warmth and a sense of peace I had never imagined.

From where I sat, my view extended out over The Spit and Middle Harbor, an endless expanse of blue that seemed to merge with the sky.

The panorama alone made me feel like I’d hit the jackpot.

The house, built on solid sandstone foundations, perched on almost a thousand square meters of prime land.

I appreciated the tiny details everywhere I glanced: the high ceilings, flawless timber floors, and the craftsmanship of the place.

Even the kitchen, with its open-plan design and options for formal dining, delighted my eye.

The whole space had everything we needed, including more zoned air conditioning, security alarms, and plantation blinds, which made it feel like a private oasis.

The bedrooms, including the primary room with its northern aspect and serene views, offered immense comfort with Chiara’s modern sensibility and cream, black, and linen touch.

I was already planning renovations and maybe a few modern touches to bring out its best character.

Even as it was now, it was impeccable. It was a sanctuary—our resting place from the world’s madness.

I stood and moved to the veranda, where the breeze carried the salty scent of the sea, and the sun kissed my skin.

The expansive space was perfect for sitting with a glass of wine or coffee and letting your worry wash away.

Below me, the azure pool glistened, bordered by a sandstone sundeck as solid as the foundations beneath this house. Next to it was the pool house and studio with two ensuite rooms, a designer living space, and a gym.

The gardens were tiered, designed for quiet mornings or long walks in the evening, where you’d forget you were so close to the city.

I leaned against the railing, looking down at the gardens and pool below and beyond the ocean, shimmering in the sunlight.

My mind drifted to Clontarf Beach, a short walk away, where evening walks together were now part of our routine.

I turned back, studying the house anew.

This was our forever home.

Where we planned to make memories, perhaps with a brood of kids.

I didn’t only get lucky with this house—I got blessed with her.

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