Page 34 of My Ruthless Husband

“I’m not a child who needs to be monitored.”

No response.

“Why did I expect better from you?” I say wryly.

“My loyalty lies with Mr. Montgomery, ma’am.”

Don’t I know it?I turn to leave when he speaks again. “He is not a bad man.”

I don’t turn as I answer, “I beg to differ.”

“Eat your breakfast, please.”

“I’ll eat when I get my things back.”

I’m not a pushover anymore. If Damian thinks I’ll let him dictate my life this time around, he is gravely mistaken.

Chapter Ten

Past

Every inch of my heart feels like it’s wrapped in a cozy, warm blanket of happiness. A constant grin is plastered on my face that just won’t go away as Dad and I stroll along the picturesque streets of Paris.

This is my first ever trip to Paris and I think I’m in love with this city.

Every mundane stuff feels interesting. I swear my steps have an extra bounce and for the first time, the shadow of the guards following us doesn’t bother me.

The world seems to sparkle a little brighter and I catch myself humming to a tune. This feeling is so addicting. Like I’ve cracked a code to this happiness thing. It feels like my favorite song is playing on repeat. Everything is glowing inside me, making everything feel like a scene out of a feel-good movie.

Is this place truly magical? Or maybe the magic lies in the small rectangle card that’s tucked in my blazer? The card given by the man I lost my heart to.

Pulling the blazer tightly around my midi dress, I loop my arm with Dad’s. He is wearing a tailored, slim fit blue designer dress shirt paired with cream-colored chinos.

“Dad, do you ever meet someone and just… feel like they’re a part of something you’ve been missing?”

His eyes were full of understanding. “Absolutely, sweetheart. Sometimes certain people come into our lives for a reason. They show us we can be… more. Whole.”

I couldn’t help but think of Damian again. Even thousands of miles apart, I can feel his presence. I caress the pocket where his card sits hidden.

“Is this about that man you were running after in the hotel lobby?”

I jerk a little and shake my head vehemently. “I told you I mistook him for my—”

“Professor. Right.” He gives me a sidelong glance.

“Derek said that man whisked you in the elevator.”

“Because he thought I was in danger! He saw the guards running after me and acted on impulse.”

“And you let him.”

“Because I was confused,” I murmur. Then narrow my eyes at him. “Are you implying I’m lying?”

He stops and faces me. Cupping my face, he plants a kiss on my forehead. “You’re very innocent, sweet pea.”

I frown up at him. “I’m not a kid, Dad.”

“I know, my love but as you navigate through life, it’s essential to be mindful of the company you want to keep and the situations you find yourself in.”

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