Page 132 of My Dark Divine

“It’s all your doing,” he says softly. When I give him a questioning look, he adds, “You’re the reason I’m whole. Without you, I’d fall apart. And none of this would be possible.”

I bite my lip, trying to hold back the wave of emotions threatening to spill over. He’s always been so guarded, so closed off. Lately, he’s been opening up to me more and more, and still, it’s a bit disarming. I find myself completely captivated. “Keep saying things like this, and I might start thinking you’re in love with me.”

“I’m notinlove with you, Netia.” Strong hands magnetize back to my waist, a familiar dance of desire. His eyes hold a gleam of passion, a fire that reflects the heat rising within me, the comfort of his touch, and the promise of something extraordinary. “Iloveyou. More than fucking anything.”

I try to breathe, but my lungs feel constricted, filled with a nervous energy that makes my heart pound against my ribs. He presses me closer, reminding me to breathe, but my body is caught in a storm of feelings—one that he, as always, is the center of.

Though it doesn’t take long for me to respond. “I love you too.”

And no matter how hard he tries to maintain his composure, I see through him—the depth of feeling reflected in his eyes, the pulse of emotion in his chest. He sinks his teeth into his bottom lip, trying to hold back a smile, but I steal it from him, kissing him once again.

I’m so down for him, it’s fucking ridiculous.

Every sunset marks the end of another day, and the one I look forward to most is coming home to him. To the only man in the world who will always be there for me.

Just as I will always be there for him.

I want to start by saying that this book completely wrecked me. I resonate with all the characters I write, and they each carry a part of my experience—some of my emotions and feelings.

Venetia and West both embody those fragile parts of me I was once so scared to talk about: the insecurities, the constant desire to achieve the impossible, and the fear of being hurt again. My heart ached deeply during the months I spent writing this story, and I now feel drained—in the best way possible—and happy, knowing I can finally share a story that holds such a special place in my heart.

Thank you to everyone who waited for this release, followed my teasers, and supported me throughout the writing andpublishing process. I am deeply grateful for the chance and time you’ve given me.

Thank you to my one true friend, V., who hypes up every idea my twisted mind comes up with, no matter how insane it may sound. I can’t begin to put into words how much your support means to me.

And, of course, thank you to Karina from Vi Design for the stunning cover and all the beautiful teasers you created for me.

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